Miami has completed the overhaul of its secondary by landing of one of the best young DBs in America, Xavier Lucas.
The 6'2, 200-pound Broward County native was the second-highest graded player on the Wisconsin defense as a true freshman. According to PFF, Lucas posted a 77.5 overall rating, a 75.2 coverage grade and a 76.8 tackling grade. He made 18 total tackles with 2 pass deflections and an INT.
Lucas instantly becomes one of the fastest corners in the ACC. In the spring of 2024, Lucas posted a personal best 10.49 in the 100M.
Lucas reunites with his former Deerfield Beach teammate, Freshman All-American OJ Frederique. Miami has added four additional blue-chip transfers in the secondary with Charles Brantley (Michigan State), Ethan O'Connor (Wazzu), Zechariah Poyser (Jacksonville St.) and Emmanuel Karnley (Arizona).
Lucas attempted to enter the Transfer Portal several weeks ago. Wisconsin refused to enter his name in the Portal within the time required by rule. Wisconsin claims Lucas signed a revenue-sharing agreement pursuant to the
House antitrust settlement. However, the settlement has yet to be approved, and the NCAA has been unable to legally restrict player movement after a series of court defeats. Lucas's attorney Darren Heitner said Lucas has yet to receive a payment from Wisconsin.
When Wisconsin failed to comply with standard protocol, Lucas withdrew from Wisconsin and enrolled in Miami. The NCAA will seek no further action.
