Major Break: 6-foot-5 and weighing 310 pounds DL from Florida flips commitment to Hurricanes
In a significant development for the 2026 college football recruiting class, four-star defensive lineman Kendall Guervil from Fort Myers High School in Florida has flipped his commitment to the Miami Hurricanes. This decision comes after a substantial Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer, reportedly exceeding $1 million, was extended to Guervil, highlighting the evolving landscape of college football recruiting.
Guervil, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 310 pounds, is ranked as the No. 8 defensive lineman and the No. 75 overall prospect in the 2026 class, according to 247Sports. His junior year statistics are impressive, with 88 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles in 11 games. Over his high school career, he has amassed 165 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks, showcasing his consistent performance on the field.
Initially, Guervil had a strong inclination towards the University of Florida, citing the “brotherhood” and family atmosphere during his visits. He had built a close relationship with Florida’s defensive line coach, Gerald Chatman, and had visited the campus multiple times.
However, Miami’s persistent recruitment efforts, led by head coach Mario Cristobal and defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, played a pivotal role in swaying Guervil’s decision. Guervil attended Miami’s prospect camp and multiple practices, where he worked closely with the coaching staff and expressed admiration for their defensive schemes. He noted, “They thought I did well at the camp,” and appreciated the opportunity to engage with the team.
The substantial NIL offer from Miami further influenced Guervil’s decision, reflecting the increasing impact of NIL deals in college football recruiting. This move underscores Miami’s commitment to attracting top-tier talent and enhancing their defensive lineup.
Guervil’s commitment is a significant addition to Miami’s 2026 recruiting class, which already includes notable prospects such as Jordan Campbell, Malachi Toney, and Dereon Coleman. His presence is expected to bolster Miami’s defensive front, providing depth and versatility.
As Guervil prepares for his senior year at Fort Myers High School, his focus will be on continuing to develop his skills and contribute to his team’s success. His commitment to Miami not only strengthens the Hurricanes’ future roster but also highlights the dynamic nature of college football recruiting in the NIL era.
Miami fans and coaching staff alike are enthusiastic about Guervil’s decision, anticipating his impact on the field and his role in the team’s pursuit of excellence. This commitment marks a significant milestone in Miami’s recruiting efforts and sets a precedent for future engagements with top recruits.
