4-star defensive lineman commits to Miami over Georgia, FSU and Ohio State

In a major recruiting win for the Miami Hurricanes, four-star defensive lineman Tyson Bacon from Hoover High School in Alabama has officially committed to Miami. The news broke on Tuesday as Bacon, a 6-foot-4, 270-pound hybrid defensive lineman, chose Miami over programs like Georgia, FSU and Ohio State.

Bacon is graded as a top‑100 2026 DL prospect and rated a four-star by Rivals and others. He's also the Hurricanes' first defensive‑line addition in the 2026 class. He brings positional versatility — able to rush from the edge and play inside at 3‑technique — which Miami’s Hall‑of‑Fame coaches Damione Lewis and Jason Taylor can maximize. Coach Mario Cristobal has emphasized building a strong front seven, and adding a player of Bacon’s size and flexibility strengthens Miami’s defensive foundation early in the cycle.

During his official visit over the weekend, Miami’s “family feeling” left a deep impression on Bacon. He cited the staff’s transparent approach, comprehensive welcome, and on/off-field development plan as key factors in his commitment. Among those who stood out were coaches D‑Lew and Jason Taylor.

Bacon originally committed to Tennessee in October, de‑committed in April, and took official visits to multiple schools including Miami. As of today, he adds to Miami’s 13‑strong 2026 class, elevating the prospects of coach Cristobal's early haul. On3 places Bacon at No. 40 among defensive lineman and No. 420 overall, while 247Sports lists him as a top‑300 composite prospect.

Expect Miami to make additional big plays on both sides of the ball following Bacon’s pledge. His choice reinforces that the Canes can win tough recruiting battles in the SEC and Big Ten, especially those involving players in the trenches. Bacon’s commitment is a major statement for Miami’s program direction in 2026. Now that Bacon is in the fold, the Hurricanes future defense just got a lot better.