Unexpected:Hurricanes concludes signing of Star CB Ponds for the next of the…

Miami reportedly visited D’Angelo Ponds, a former James Madison cornerback, at his home on Thursday. Ponds was recognized as a 2023 true freshman All-American by 247Sports. He was ranked as the 1,966th overall signee, the 170th cornerback, and the 280th recruit in Florida from Chaminade-Madonna in the 2023 class.

Miami sees Ponds as a potential slot cornerback, which would enable them to move Mishael Powell, a transfer from Washington, back to the safety position. Powell primarily played as a slot cornerback during the spring. In 2023, Ponds recorded 51 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, 2.0 interceptions, 15 pass breakups, and two fumble recoveries.

In 2023, Ponds received numerous accolades, including the College Football Network Freshman CB of the Year and a second-team All-American recognition from the outlet. Bringing Ponds on board would provide Miami with a formidable slot cornerback. Throughout the 2023 season, Ponds played in all 13 games for James Madison, starting in 10 of them. According to On3, when Ponds entered the transfer portal, twenty-one other programs extended offers to him.

Among these, Florida Atlantic is the sole in-state program besides Miami to have made an offer to Ponds. Miami can leverage opportunities for playing time and the distinction of being the only major in-state program as incentives for Ponds to choose the Hurricanes.