The Miami Hurricanes were already losing several pass-catchers to the NFL Draft and transfer portal before junior Shemar Kirk entered it on Thursday. Kirk would have had a larger opportunity in the 2025 season with this many guys leaving.
Despite being held catchless in two seasons in Miami, he got an opportunity to step up in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. He was able to haul in two receptions for 22 yards and give Canes fans a taste of his ability. However, we now know that his future in the college ranks will be at a different program.
Miami wide receiver Shemar Kirk has entered the transfer portal, @chris_hummer and I have learned for @cbssports/@247Sports.
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 3, 2025
Had two catches this year.https://t.co/10Sz3YxlzO pic.twitter.com/v1upKTLkab
Miami wideout Shemar Kirk has officially entered the transfer portal
The Nashville native is a former three-star recruit who played junior college football for Reedley College. In two seasons there, he totaled 76 receptions for 1,146 yards and 15 touchdowns. Kirk is viewed as a talented playmaker and had several other offers before choosing Miami ahead of the 2023 season.
Miami is experiencing a lot of turnover on the offensive side of the ball. Heisman finalist Cam Ward and over 3,600 receiving yards must be replaced next season. The Canes 'offense had to carry the weight for a struggling defense this season, and now Mario Cristobal will need to retool his offense for 2025.
Kirk was finally able to put some positive tape together in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, and for a moment, it felt like a launching pad for his 2025 season with Miami. The other young receivers and new LSU recruit CJ Daniels will have even more opportunities to produce next year. While losing Kirk isn't a massive loss for Cristobal and Miami, it stings nonetheless.