Miami spring practice is in full swing for the upcoming football season and has brought in many people outside of the program to visit. Usually the notable visitors are big-time recruits who are deciding the next step in their journey. But, on Tuesday, former pro football player and analyst, Brian Baldinger, stopped by Coral Gables.
Baldinger, who has attended practices of many professional and collegiate organizations, had high praise for Cristobal and the Hurricanes. In a post on X, Baldinger said this about the Hurricanes' practice: "I went to Mario Cristobal's practice on Tuesday. Most impressive practice I have seen at any level in years. I believe in Mario; I believe in the Canes. Power to UM."
In another post on X that was reposted by Baldinger, he received support from others around the program. The post mentions Baldinger's attendance around different practices in the country, implying that he knows what he sees when it comes to this sort of thing.
The Hurricanes have been back at it on the field this spring since the beginning of March. QB Carson Beck is still rehabbing his way back from an injury he suffered last season. The Hurricanes will still have a spring game, despite many teams cancelling their own, on April 12.
Spring ball has also made a strong impression on the 2026 recruiting class. Since the month began, the Hurricanes have received three commits. Jaelen Waters committed earlier this month after holding previous commitments to Florida and FSU. He is a 6-foot-1, 180-pound cornerback from Armwood High School in Seffner, Florida.
Javian Mallory committed on March 22. He is a 6-foot, 200-pound running back from West Boca Raton High School in Boca Raton, Florida. Ben Congdon is a 6-foot-7, 270-pound offensive tackle from Mineral City, Ohio. He committed on the first day of spring practice.