In a bold move, hip-hop mogul and Miami native Rick Ross has become actively involved in the University of Miami's recruitment of standout safety A.J. Haulcy. The Hurricanes are pulling out all the stops to secure Haulcy's commitment, including providing a police escort and organizing a lavish dinner in South Beach which was attended by Ross himself.
Haulcy began his college football career at the University of New Mexico, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2022. He finished the season with 87 total tackles, three tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and two interceptions which earned him Second-team All-Mountain West honors.
After his true freshman campaign, Haulcy transferred to the University of Houston for the 2023 season. There, he continued to excel, as he logged 98 total tackles, one tackle for loss and four pass deflections in his sophomore season. His hard work culminated in a dominant 2024 season where he recorded 74 tackles, five interceptions, and eight passes defended. His efforts earned him First-Team All-Big 12 honors and solidified his reputation as one of the top safeties in all of college football.
Haulcy's decision to enter the transfer portal has made him one of the most sought-after defensive backs available. He has attracted interest from several top programs but Miami and Ole Miss appear to be the leaders in the clubhouse for his services. Haulcy is rated as the top player available in the transfer portal and currently holds a 92.83 On3 Industry rating as well as a 4-star designation (also from On3).
Under the leadership of head coach Mario Cristobal, Miami has been aggressive in the transfer portal, assembling one of the top portal classes this offseason. The Hurricanes' transfer class is currently ranked fifth nationally and if they were to add Haulcy, it would set Miami up very well for the 2025 season.