Now that Miami and Mario Cristobal are wrapped up with splash moves in the transfer portal, everyone can't wait for Week 1 to get here later this year. Unfortunately, there are still more than six months to go until kickoff arrives.
ESPN analysts believe Jackson Cantwell can make an impact from Day 1
Obviously, all eyes are going to be on Darian Mensah this spring, summer and fall, as the talented QB is ready to take over the offense. However, if you ask On3, he's not the most important transfer addition for the Canes. Instead, that'd be Damon Wilson II, a stud EDGE who is making the move to Coral Gables from Missouri:
NEW: Top 10 most impactful moves in this year's College Football Transfer Portal via @AriWasserman👀
— On3 (@On3) February 5, 2026
Do you agree? 🤔https://t.co/eVFZTVGh6x pic.twitter.com/tK9WJITfhN
Damon Wilson II will be ready to be a force for Miami football in 2026
As you can see above, Wilson is No. 3 on the Top 10 list overall and Mensah is No. 9. It's not a surprise that both guys are featured, but some might be a little stunned that Wilson is higher. We're not and there's a big reason for that.
Miami's pass-rush has been sensational of late, with Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor being studs in the trenches. The two of them together was a dream come true production wise for Cristobal and defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman - everyone saw how great they were in the CFP.
Unfortunately for the Canes, the NFL is calling and Mesidor and Bain won't have to wait long to hear their names called. Despite that, Wilson has signed with The U and he's ready to be a complete and total force in the ACC next season. Cristobal is relying on him to be a monster for the Canes defense.
As for Mensah, he's obviously going to have high expectations entering the new season. Carson Beck was one and done with Miami, but he was worth every penny after he helped the Canes reach the CFP title game this winter.
Mensah is looking to match that level of play, while also helping Miami win it all. Wilson figures to be a defensive leader, while Mensah will be leading the O out onto the field. Regardless of how they're ranked, both veteran playmakers will need to be at their best from start to finish once the new season arrives.