Miami Football: Freshmen defensive line expectations
The Miami football program signed an elite group of defensive linemen in the 2023 class with edge rushers Rueben Bain, Jayden Wayne and Collins Acheampong and tackle Joshua Horton. Bain can line up as an edge rusher or tackle and Acheampong could potentially move inside to tackle.
Bain is the highest-rated Miami defensive signee in the 2023 class. Throughout the spring and in training camp this month Bain has been productive. Bain was named a Freshman All-American by 247 Sports earlier this week. Bain has frequently received first-team snaps throughout training camp and could start in the season opener.
The 247 Sports composite rankings have Bain as the 71st prospect, 10th edge rusher and 15th signee in Florida in the 2023 class. Wayne is the 104th prospect, 14th edge and 24th in Florida. Bain is the highest-rated 2023 Miami defensive signee and Wayne was second. Bain has been ahead of Wayne throughout training camp.
Wayne has been reportedly working in the JACK position which is a hybrid of defensive end and linebacker. The JACK drops back into pass coverage as well as rushing the passer. Miami is extremely deep at edge rusher. Wayne had three sacks in the first Miami scrimmage and is pushing for playing time.
Acheampong provides elite size for the Miami football team on the DL at 6’7 and 250 pounds. Acheampong added 20 pounds to his frame in the offseason. A 6’11 wingspan will create problems for passers at the line of scrimmage. Acheampong will be an intriguing player to follow this fall and is a candidate to redshirt.
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At 6’4 and 295 pounds, Horton is the big body type that Mario Cristobal likes on the line of scrimmage. Defensive line coach Jason Taylor stated earlier this month that Horton has adapted well after not arriving in Coral Gables until later this summer. Reports state Horton should challenge for playing time this season.