2027 Miami CB commit given permission to reclassify to 2026

Miami Hurricanes four-star cornerback Kenton Dopson III, originally part of the 2027 recruiting class, has been cleared by the program to reclassify and enroll early in 2026, a move that could accelerate his on-field impact in Coral Gables.

Dopson, a 6-foot, 185-pound standout at Norland High in Miami, committed to the Hurricanes on March 13 after fending off interest from multiple elite programs including Georgia, Penn State, Auburn and Florida State. Now, just months after pledging and originally set to join the 2027 class, he's exploring a shift that would bring him to campus for spring practice and join an already impressive defensive back recruiting class. The Hurricanes currently hold four cornerback commits in the 2026 class with Jontavius Wyman, Brody Jennings, Jaelen Waters and Camdin Portis already committed.

Miami’s staff formally granted Dopson the “green light” to make the jump per On3 recruiting analyst Stephen Wagner. The decision comes on the heels of an update noting Dopson was “like 90% leaning” toward reclassification. Dopson could enroll as early as January, participate in spring drills, and position himself for early playing time.

According to On3’s industry rankings, Dopson is a top-15 national player in the 2027 cycle and among the top cornerbacks. At Norland, he recorded three interceptions and 16 tackles as a sophomore and earned MaxPreps All-America honors.

Texas, Florida State and Tennessee are still courting Dopson but Miami seems to be where he wants to play. He has mentioned interest in visiting Texas and Tennessee but the potential reclassification could complicate that. Dopson’s hometown roots and established relationship with the program make it seem more likely that he will be in Coral Gables in 2026 than another program in 2027 (or 2026 for that matter). The most recent example of a Miami commit reclassifying is freshman WR Malachi Toney who just had an impressive spring game.