With Miami prepared to make a run at the ACC and the CFP in 2025, it’s time to start pondering who the new faces might be. The Hurricanes boast an outstanding freshman class, but with a group of talented freshmen, it’s hard to know exactly who to watch. Here’s an early guide to five freshmen who could stand out with the Hurricanes in the 2025 season.
Top 5 Miami Freshmen Who Could Shine in 2025
Joshua Moore, WR
Moore is a 6’4″ freshman standout who should be among the many talented options in the wide receiver rotation. Moore was a four-star recruit from in-state, and his size and physicality probably put him ahead of most freshmen at the position. Miami didn’t return a single player from last year’s team with more than 10 receptions. There are some impressive new transfers, but Moore will certainly get his shot at the field.
Given his height, Moore might develop into a favorite for Carson Beck, who certainly isn’t shy about hunting big plays. By the end of the season, Moore might end up among the most productive pass catchers on the Miami roster.
Seuseu Alofaituli, C
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Alofaituli is a four-star prospect who played at Bishop Gorman High in Las Vegas. At 6’2″ and around 280 pounds, he projects as the likely backup at center. But despite a lack of experience, his mobility and athleticism mean that Alofaituli is probably in the thick of the battle for a spot in the regular offensive line rotation. He’s unlikely to start this season, but will see enough action to be prepared to nab a starting job as soon as next year.
Donta Simpson, DT
Simpson was a bit of an under-the-radar find. Just a three-star recruit per 247sports, Simpson is 6’3″ and weighs just over 280 pounds. But he’s an athletic lane-clogger up front and figures to see some action as a reserve in the middle of the defensive line. Simpson was an in-state recruit, and Miami was apparently impressed very early. While he’s not the biggest name, his size makes him a likely guy to see some 2025 action for the Hurricanes.
Malachi Toney, WR
A three-star standout, Toney is the kind of burner who can find his way into the receiver rotation. At just under 6′ tall and just over 180 pounds, he’ll need to put on some strength and size to compete at the ACC level. He’s still a potential contributor as a slot receiver, given his speed and big-play ability. Toney’s father played briefly in the NFL, and if he’s going to follow that path, he’ll make sure the Hurricanes can’t keep him off the field.
Luke Nickel, QB
Granted, Nickel is the third-string QB, and the two guys above him are experienced and talented. Senior Georgia transfer Carson Beck will start, and Emory Williams has some experience behind him. Nickel, as a freshman, will probably take things slowly. A four-star recruit from Georgia, the 6’2″ passer might be the long-term future of the Hurricane offense.
As things stand, the likely expectation is that Nickel will play in four or fewer games to preserve his redshirt season. But if he’s needed to do more, Nickel will probably be ready. Miami doesn’t expect to see him except for some mop-up duty, but stranger things have definitely happened.
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