Miami’s 2024 recruiting class came to fruition because of several individuals, including one Hurricanes fans may not know much about.

Miami’s football office includes a hard-working individual who understands the nuances of recruiting in talent-rich South Florida and across the United States. To help the Canes reach the status of 247’s No. 4 recruiting class, he had to be the glue that helped Mario Cristobal assemble and keep together a top class.

According to 247’s Steve Wiltfong, Miami’s Dennis Smith is a prime reason the Hurricanes are signing elite talent.

“Miami’s Executive Director Dennis Smith is as much a face as any off-field recruiting department in the county, impacting all facets of the operation including talent acquisition. He was pivotal in the Hurricanes landing class jewels in edge rusher Marquise Lightfoot, defensive lineman Armondo Blount, receivers Joshisa Trader and Ny Carr and defensive lineman Artavius Jones.”

Indeed, Smith helps the Hurricanes in many facets, including building relationships with recruits across the United States. Incredibly, Miami’s efforts include landing the top pass rusher from Chicago in Lightfoot. Still, the most important relationships and recruiting victories are close to Miami’s campus and he’s no stranger to being in Dade County.

Broward and Dade counties are providing the Hurricanes with nine combined recruits. When Miami wins big, local talent comes to The U. Smith has his fingerprints all over those recruitments.

Smith is a 2005 graduate of Miami and also worked with Cristobal from 2007-2012 at FIU. His roles ranged during his time with the Panthers, including being the director of personnel and later the recruiting coordinator. Smith knows the South Florida recruiting territories well.

In addition to Smith, Wiltfong mentions Steven Schrum, Todd Stroud, Stephen Field, and Mike Rumph are key recruiters for Miami. They certainly deserve credit for their roles with several prospects heading to Coral Gables as well.

Congratulations to Smith and Miami’s staff members for operating one of college football’s top recruiting organizations. It is a job well done.