Hurricanes Shine at NFL Draft Combine with Impressive Performances

Ten players from the University of Miami (UM) showcased their skills at the NFL Draft combine in Indianapolis, hoping to catch the attention of NFL scouts. Among them, standout performers like Rueben Bain Jr. and Francis Mauigoa are already on the radar of NFL front offices, while others aimed to enhance their prospects through impressive showings.

Key Performances at the Combine

Rueben Bain Jr., a defensive lineman, has attracted significant attention during the draft process, largely due to questions surrounding his arm length, which measures at 30 7/8 inches. While some analysts view this as a potential drawback for a defensive end, Bain dismissed the concerns, stating, “None of the teams mentioned that to me, so I don’t really give that the time of day. That’s just all stuff on social media.” His performance suggests he remains a strong candidate for a high first-round selection in the upcoming draft.

Quarterback Carson Beck, who led UM to the national championship game, faced a mixed reception from fans at the combine. Despite being booed by the Indiana crowd, he demonstrated his talent with several impressive throws. CBS Sports ranks Beck as the seventh-best quarterback in the draft, while NFL.com describes him as a “good backup with the potential to develop into a starter.”

Offensive lineman Markel Bell made an impression with his size, measuring at 6 feet 9 inches and 346 pounds. However, his considerable bulk raises concerns regarding agility against faster defensive ends. NFL.com rated Bell with a prospect grade of 5.89, categorizing him as an “average backup or special-teamer.”

Linebacker Wesley Bissainthe, a Miami native, did not fare as well as his peers. He received the lowest grade among Hurricanes at the combine, with a score of 5.82. Analyst Lance Zierlein noted that while Bissainthe’s ceiling appears limited, his special-teams experience may provide him an opportunity to secure a roster spot.

Emerging Talents and Expectations

Offensive lineman Anez Cooper emerged as a solid prospect after four years as a starter at Miami. He measured in at 6 feet 4 inches and 335 pounds, earning a 6.18 grade from NFL.com, indicating he has the potential to develop into a starter.

Wide receiver CJ Daniels, who played only one season at UM, participated at the combine but did not take part in every measurement. He received a prospect grade of 5.84, suggesting he is likely to become a backup in the NFL.

Francis Mauigoa, a key figure on the offensive line, excelled as Miami’s starting right tackle and has developed into an All-American. He measured at 6 feet 5.5 inches and 329 pounds and is projected to be a top-15 pick in the draft. Mauigoa expressed a desire to remain with the Dolphins if given the chance, stating, “Miami’s second home. It would be nice to be able to stay home and play with a couple of my teammates from back home.”

Defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor, who transferred to Miami before the 2022 season, showed resilience in 2025 and is now projected to be a first-round pick. He measured in at 6 feet 3 inches and 259 pounds. Zierlein highlighted Mesidor’s talent and motor but cautioned that his age and injury history could impact his draft stock.

Finally, defensive back Keionte Scott emerged as a promising player in Miami’s secondary. Despite suffering a foot injury late in the season, he achieved a prospect grade of 6.30, indicating he could eventually become a strong starter. Zierlein noted that Scott’s football character should make him a favorite among teams looking for a starting nickelback.

Safety Jakobe Thomas, who transferred from Tennessee, earned a 6.12 prospect grade, which suggests he has the potential to develop into a starter, although he is projected as a late-round pick.

As the NFL Draft approaches on April 27, 2026, the performances at the combine will play a crucial role in shaping the futures of these players, with several likely to hear their names called early in the selection process.