Miami Loses Commitment from Local OL Recruit Zaquan Linton

Hurricanes continue to build 2027 recruiting class with other top offensive line targets

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:07pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fractured, multi-perspective view of a football offensive line, using vibrant colors to capture the dynamic energy of the sport.Miami's pursuit of top offensive line recruits takes a new shape as the Hurricanes adapt their strategy after losing a local commitment.Today in Miami

The Miami Hurricanes and three-star offensive lineman Zaquan Linton have parted ways, with the local Palm Beach Central prospect no longer part of Miami's 2027 recruiting class. The Hurricanes are now focused on other top offensive line targets as they continue to build a highly-ranked class.

Why it matters

Maintaining in-state recruiting pipelines is crucial for Miami as they look to build a championship-caliber roster. Losing a local prospect like Linton is a setback, but the Hurricanes have several other highly-touted offensive line recruits in their sights as they aim to shore up that position group.

The details

Linton, a 6-foot-5, 290-pound prospect, had originally committed to Miami in July 2026. However, the Hurricanes have now moved on and will focus their efforts on other offensive line targets, including five-star tackle Mark Matthews from Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas. Miami has already landed commitments from several other top recruits for 2027, including quarterback Israel Abrams, wide receivers Nick Lennear and Ah'Mari Stevens, and offensive lineman Sean Tatum.

  • Linton committed to Miami in July 2026.
  • Miami and Linton have now parted ways in April 2027.

The players

Zaquan Linton

A three-star offensive lineman from Palm Beach Central High School who had previously committed to the Miami Hurricanes.

Mario Cristobal

The head coach of the Miami Hurricanes football team.

Mark Matthews

A five-star offensive tackle recruit from Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas, who is a top target for the Miami Hurricanes.

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What’s next

Miami will continue to pursue other top offensive line recruits, including five-star tackle Mark Matthews, as they look to build a strong 2027 recruiting class.

The takeaway

Losing a local prospect like Zaquan Linton is a setback for Miami, but the Hurricanes have demonstrated their ability to recruit top talent across the state and country. Their focus on offensive line recruits, including Matthews, shows their commitment to building a championship-caliber roster.