Four-star cornerback Kenton Dopson committed to the Miami Hurricanes’ 2027 recruiting class on Thursday, choosing Mario Cristobal’s program over offers from Georgia, Texas A&M, Penn State, Louisville, Auburn, and Florida State. The Norland High School (Florida) standout, who stands at 6 feet and 175 pounds, received his offer from Miami in October and made his decision official on a deeply meaningful date: his late mother’s birthday. Dopson’s mother passed away after a battle with stomach cancer, and he wanted his commitment to serve as a tribute to her memory.
“It was important for me to do it on her birthday because that’s my why – my mom,” Dopson told Rivals. “She passed when I was younger, so I wanted this to be a gift to her. It’s the right time. My mom has always been a strong woman. I remember her being brave.” Reflecting on what his mother would have advised, Dopson added, “I think my mom would just tell me to choose what’s best for me. I think she would be very happy, very proud of me.”
Dopson, who held 15 offers, is Miami’s first defensive commit and the second overall pledge in the 2027 class, joining four-star wide receiver Ah’mari Stevens. While Dopson has not yet been ranked by 247Sports or On3, Rivals considers him a four-star prospect, ranking him as the No. 2 cornerback in the 2027 class, the second-best recruit in Florida, and the No. 12 overall prospect in the nation.
Miami’s recruitment efforts were led by head coach Mario Cristobal, cornerbacks coach Zac Etheridge, safeties coach Will Harris, and recruiting relations coordinator Frank Tucker. Dopson praised the program’s energy, proximity to home, and commitment to restoring Miami’s legacy. “They have always been up there for me,” Dopson told On3. “The coaches are great, the energy is good, and it is close to home. Coach Cristobal is bringing back the old-school Miami. They have a great history and know how to develop players. I like the staff a lot and how they love to compete.”
During his sophomore season in 2024, Dopson showcased his talent with three interceptions and a team-leading 16 passes defended, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the defensive backfield. His commitment to Miami not only strengthens the Hurricanes’ future but also honors the memory of his mother, whose strength and bravery continue to inspire him.
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