Miami and Mario Cristobal have a natty in mind, but that doesn't mean recruiting is taking a break in Coral Gables. With the transfer portal fully open, the Canes are looking to add key playmakers soon in the same way they did in 2025.
Miami lines up transfer portal visits with 2 key defensive linemen
At this point last year, guys like Carson Beck and Keionte Scott transferred in and we're seeing the massive difference they're making. Will someone like Koi Perich have a similar impact for the Canes? First, Miami needs to land him, but it sure looks like Cristobal has a great shot at doing so.
That's because Perich was a standout for Minnesota this past campaign, with the safety putting on a show. Several teams have shown quick interest, but with former Minnesota DC Corey Hetherman now being in Miami, it seems like the Canes could have an advantage in potentially getting things done here:
Source: Koi Perich is not only a top priority for Mario Cristobal's Miami Hurricanes in the transfer portal, but former Minnesota Gophers defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman has the wheels in motion.
— Ted (@tlschwerz) January 3, 2026
Miami football is reportedly making a move to land Minnesota safety Koi Perich
This past season, Perich took home Second-Team All-Big Ten honors and rightfully so. The 6-1, 200-pounder finished with 82 total tackles, one interception, one sack and one forced fumble. He's as consistent and can be, which is going to be a welcome addition for whoever lands him. Perich is also the No. 1 safety in the portal per the 247Sports rankings.
As you might have been able to guess, other powerhouses have been linked to the standout defensive back, including Ohio State. The Buckeyes suffered the rough loss to the Canes and they're going to have to re-tool the secondary.
Could Cristobal and the Canes land another haymaker on Ryan Day and his staff by beating Ohio State out for Perich's services? That remains to be seen, but it's clear that Miami is working to turn his head now that he's officially in the portal.
Hetherman has been a blessing for Miami, as he has completely turned around the defense. Last year, Miami's defense kept the program out of the CFP. Fast forward to this year, and Miami is one win away from reaching the National Championship Game. Hetherman can further cement his status as a stud coach for the Canes if he helps reel in Perich as well.