National Signing Day: Miami Hurricanes Claim Top Recruiting Class

Randy Shannon's first season as head coach of the Miami Hurricanes did not go too well. 

The long-time defensive coordinator went 5-7 this past year, much to the dismay of the Hurricane faithful.

Shannon’s first time going through the recruiting process is a much different story. 

He’s been able to stack his defensive unit and improved the quarterback position.  The top three linebacker prospects:  Arthur Brown, Sean Spence, and Ramon Buchanon have signed with the 'Canes.  The top defensive tackle in the country, Marcus Fortson, will be in green, orange and white next year too.

Everyone knows the 'Canes have had their problems with quarterbacks since Ken Dorsey left.  Brock Berlin was supposed to be the best thing since sliced bread and he was a flop.  Kyle Wright is as inconsistent as they come but when he's good he's great. 

They are bringing in two quarterbacks with contrasting styles to bring stability to that position. 

Hometown hero Jacory Harris is a mobile quarterback with upside to become a good passer.  He was Florida's Mr. Football award winner and a class 6A first team all-state selection. 

Harris stands 6'4", weighs about 170 pounds and is the No. 21 ranked Quarterback recruit.  Harris has potential to be a Troy Smith type quarterback.

The other quarterback coming to south beach next fall is Taylor Cook from Eagle Lake, Texas.   Cook is 6'6", 210 pounds and ranked No. 9 among quarterback prospects.  Cook is an imposing physical specimen with surprising athleticism, like former Arkansas QB Matt Jones—a legit dual-threat.  He has a canon for an arm and is quite mobile in the pocket.  He is an excellent prospect.

Two ESPN 150 receivers, Aldarius Johnson and Davon Johnson, look to strengthen a relative weak group of receivers currently on the roster. 

Aldarius Johnson is one of the most explosive receivers out there and has good size at 6'2" and 188 pounds.  Johnson's only fault is at times he tends to rely on his natural ability and play "street ball". 

Davon Johnson is a smooth route-runner with amazing speed and great change-of-direction ability.  Small receiver with big play abilities should fit in well in Miami.  Johnson stands 5'11", weighs 161 pounds and will benefit greatly from a collegiate weight training program.  

As a Hurricane fan I am excited to see Shannon do such a great job recruiting great talent.  It really speaks his ability as a recruiter to bring in the top class after last year's dismal season. 

The Florida sun suddenly looks brighter for the Hurricanes.