No. 1 Recruit Jackson Cantwell Raves About Miami’s Elite Coaching Staff, Says “They’re Different”—Top Prospect Weighs Options as Commitment Decision Nears, Hurricanes Emerge as Strong Contender in Fierce National Recruiting Battle
The recruiting world is buzzing, and at the center of it all is Jackson Cantwell — the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2025 class. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-8 and weighing over 300 pounds, Cantwell is a generational offensive line talent, and his commitment will likely shape the trajectory of whichever program he chooses. As the final stretch of his recruitment heats up, the Miami Hurricanes have surged into the spotlight — thanks in large part to their elite coaching staff, which Cantwell recently praised as “different.”
Cantwell, who hails from Nixa, Missouri, has been courted by nearly every major football powerhouse in the country. With offers from Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, Michigan, and others, the race to secure his signature has become one of the most closely watched recruiting battles in recent memory. Yet, following a recent official visit to Coral Gables, Miami has emerged as a serious contender — perhaps even the frontrunner.
In an interview after his visit, Cantwell spoke highly of the Hurricanes’ coaching staff, singling out head coach Mario Cristobal and offensive line coach Alex Mirabal. “They’re just different,” Cantwell said. “It’s not just about football with them. It’s about development, it’s about family, it’s about becoming a better man. You feel that the second you walk in the building.”
That kind of praise isn’t given lightly, especially from a prospect as deliberate and focused as Cantwell. Known for his intelligence and maturity off the field, he’s approaching his decision with the same intensity he brings to the trenches. Miami’s message of personal growth, attention to detail, and elite development clearly struck a chord.
Cristobal, a former offensive lineman himself, has made the trenches a top priority in his rebuild of the Hurricanes. With Mirabal — widely regarded as one of the best offensive line coaches in the country — by his side, Miami is quickly becoming a destination for top-tier linemen. Their pitch is simple: come to Miami and get developed by people who’ve done it at the highest level, both as players and coaches.
What also stood out to Cantwell was the culture. “The energy, the people, the city — it all felt real,” he noted. “Some places just feel like business. Miami feels like family. That’s rare.”
Cantwell’s decision is expected within the next month, and while he’s keeping his cards close, many insiders believe Miami has positioned itself well. The Hurricanes’ recent investments — from their $5.3 billion Hard Rock Stadium renovation to massive upgrades in facilities and staff — are sending a strong message to recruits: Miami is all in.
Landing Cantwell would be a program-defining win for Cristobal and company. Not only would it solidify Miami’s return to national recruiting prominence, but it would also anchor an offensive line that could serve as the foundation for future championship runs.
As commitment day looms, one thing is certain — Jackson Cantwell isn’t just choosing a school. He’s choosing a legacy. And if his words are any indication, the Hurricanes may be storming their wayback to the top.
