Miami battling Virginia for Tennessee defensive back transfer

Christian Charles, a defensive back from Tennessee, scheduled a visit to the University of Miami as he explores his options and looks for a home with two more years of eligibility remaining. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound DB from Gainesville, Georgia, is also considering Virginia and has a visit with them.

During his tenure at Tennessee, Charles appeared in 30 games, accumulating 71 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, and a pass breakup. In the 2022 season, he made 35 tackles over 10 games, including a standout performance against Alabama where he recorded eight tackles and recovered a fumble on special teams. The fumble recovery against the Tide created a legendary Nick Saban crash out that made the rounds on social media.

Charles's 2023 season was cut short due to an Achilles injury sustained in the second game, leading to a year-long recovery. He returned in 2024, participating in 10 games and recording 28 tackles, primarily playing at the safety position. His season high for snaps in a game last year was 29, which he logged against Kentucky and No. 7 Alabama. Through 30 games in his career he has yet to record an interception.

In high school Charles was a consensus three-star prospect by 247Sports, Rivals and ESPN. He was ranked as the No. 33 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports and the No. 31 athlete in the country by Rivals. He received offers from 23 schools coming out of high school.

His potential addition to Miami would bring experience and depth to the secondary, but the injury history is concerning. Regardless of what Miami needs, Charles has been impressive on special teams and could always be useful in that role, but conventional wisdom says he is looking for a bigger role and a starting position. It remains to be seen which school he favors.