Miami moves up recruiting rankings after 4-star DL commit

Miami just secured a major piece for its 2026 recruiting class, landing four-star defensive tackle Anthony Kennedy. The 6-foot-6, 330-pound lineman is from Little Rock Central and confirmed his commitment to On3 Recruits. Kennedy chose the Hurricanes over SMU, Georgia, and Missouri after reopening his recruitment in May following a decommitment from Mizzou. According to On3’s Industry Ranking, he’s ranked No. 385 overall, No. 36 among defensive linemen in the 2026 cycle and No. 5 in Arkansas.

Kennedy becomes the fifth 4-star commit in just one week joining edge rusher Asharri Charles, receiver Vance Spafford, tight end Israel Briggs, and receiver Tyran Evans. He is the Hurricanes eighth commit this month and 19th overall for 2026. Kennedy’s path to the U began with an official visit to Coral Gables at the end of May. DL coach Jason Taylor’s follow‑up was key, Taylor also visited his high school days after his decommitment, which quickly led to the official visit, and ultimately the commitment.

At 6‑foot‑6 and 330 pounds, Kennedy recorded six sacks and two forced fumbles in nine games last fall. He also has a 35.5-inch wingspan. The Hurricanes now have a formidable interior lineman to pair with existing commits like Tyson Bacon and Asharri Charles.

In recruiting rankings, Miami's class now sits among the top nationally. On3 places them at No. 7 overall, which vaults them ahead of Clemson. After a dominant week on the recruiting trail, the Canes regain the top spot in the ACC which they had earlier in the spring. Clemson is still close as they are No. 8 in the country and only hold one more commit.

When looking at the recruiting rankings for 2026, Miami has a real chance to finish in the top 5. USC (No. 1) and Texas A&M (No. 4) are in the top 5 of the On3 Industry Rankings for the 2026 cycle. But both programs could get jumped by Miami as things play out (in combination with them falling as well).