The University of Miami may be on flip watch for one of Florida's top young offensive line prospects, as Fort Myers High School standout Joel Ervin has officially decommitted from the University of Louisville. The 6-foot-6, 280-pound offensive tackle announced the decision on social media, stating, “I have officially de committed from the University of Louisville please respect my decision.”
Ervin, a Class of 2026 recruit, originally committed to Louisville on March 8 following an unofficial visit. However, less than three weeks later, he backed off his pledge, reopening his recruitment at a time when several Power Five programs are actively pursuing him.
I have officially de committed from the University of Lousville please respect my decision.
— Joel Ervin (@joelervin239) March 24, 2025
Regarded as one of the top offensive linemen in Florida, Ervin is currently ranked No. 54 nationally at his position and No. 74 overall in the state, according to 247Sports. Rivals rates him as a 5.7 prospect, placing him 96th nationally and 69th in Florida. His frame, athleticism, and footwork have made him a coveted prospect among college programs looking to bolster their future trenches.
At Fort Myers High, Ervin helped anchor a dominant offensive line that paved the way for 1,759 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns across 12 games during the 2024 season. The Green Wave finished 8-4 and reached the FHSAA Class 5A regional semifinals, thanks in part to Ervin’s presence in the trenches.
Now that he’s reopened his recruitment, Ervin is taking a closer look at schools closer to home. He visited the University of Miami on March 22 and has scheduled an official visit with the Hurricanes for June 6. He’s also expected to make an official visit to the University of Florida on June 13. Miami is not the only program showing interest. Ervin recently released a top ten list that includes Florida, Florida State, Colorado, Kentucky, South Carolina, Syracuse, UCF, USC, and, notably, Miami. With both in-state powers Miami and Florida pushing hard, his recruitment is shaping up to be one of the more interesting stories in the 2026 cycle.