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GOOD NEWS: 7-Foot, 5-Star WR Commits to Miami Hurricanes, Declining Offers from Auburn, Alabama, and Ohio State
Miami, FL – The Miami Hurricanes have just pulled off one of the biggest recruiting coups in recent college football history. In a stunning announcement that sent shockwaves through the college football world, 7-foot, 5-star wide receiver James “Big J” Reynolds has officially committed to the University of Miami, turning down powerhouse programs such as Alabama, Auburn, and Ohio State.
Reynolds, a generational talent from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, is not only one of the tallest wide receivers to ever commit to a major program, but he is also regarded as one of the most dominant high school players in recent memory. With his freakish size, blistering speed for his frame, and an uncanny ability to high-point the ball, he was the most sought-after wide receiver in the 2025 recruiting cycle.
Reynolds Chooses Miami Over SEC and Big Ten Giants
Despite receiving offers from every major college football program, Reynolds narrowed his decision down to Miami, Alabama, Auburn, and Ohio State. For weeks, speculation swirled that he was leaning towards Nick Saban’s Alabama dynasty or Ryan Day’s Ohio State offense, which has produced first-round NFL wide receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Garrett Wilson.
However, in front of a packed auditorium at IMG Academy, Reynolds pulled out a Miami Hurricanes hat, signifying his commitment to Mario Cristobal’s vision for the program.
“I believe in what Coach Cristobal is building,” Reynolds said. “Miami is home, and I want to bring a national championship back to the U. I grew up watching the Canes, and I want to help restore the greatness that this program is known for.”
Why Miami?
Reynolds’ decision to join the Hurricanes was influenced by multiple factors, including:
- Proximity to home – As a Florida native, Reynolds wanted his family to easily attend his games.
- Cristobal’s recruiting pitch – The Miami head coach convinced Reynolds that he could be the focal point of their offense.
- NIL opportunities – Miami’s strong NIL program, led by supportive local businesses and boosters, provided Reynolds with lucrative endorsement opportunities.
- NFL pipeline development – With Miami producing elite NFL talent in recent years, Reynolds believes the program will prepare him for the next level.
A Nightmare Matchup for Defenses
At 7 feet tall and 235 pounds, Reynolds presents a matchup nightmare for defenders. His incredible wingspan, leaping ability, and strong hands make him nearly impossible to guard in the red zone. While some scouts initially questioned his agility at that size, Reynolds silenced critics by running a 4.45-second 40-yard dash at a recent camp, proving he has elite athleticism.
Opposing defensive coordinators now have the impossible task of figuring out how to cover a receiver who towers over every defensive back in the nation. Even linebackers and safeties struggle against his size, making him a legitimate one-of-a-kind offensive weapon.
What This Means for Miami
This commitment is a game-changer for the Hurricanes. Reynolds’ arrival immediately boosts Miami’s recruiting class ranking into the top five nationally. More importantly, it signals that Miami is back in business when it comes to competing with top-tier programs for elite talent.
Coach Cristobal, who has been relentless in recruiting, couldn’t hide his excitement.
“James Reynolds is a special player. He’s a generational talent, and he’s going to make an immediate impact. This is a huge day for Miami football.”
With Reynolds joining forces with Miami’s star quarterback recruit, 5-star passer Marcus Daniels, the Hurricanes suddenly have one of the most explosive offensive duos in the nation.
Reaction from the College Football World
The announcement quickly set social media on fire, with Miami fans celebrating the historic commitment while rival fanbases reacted with shock.
Former Hurricanes legend Andre Johnson tweeted:
“Miami just landed a MONSTER at WR. Welcome to the U, James!”
Alabama fans expressed their frustration online, with one fan writing:
“How did Saban let this one slip away? Miami just got a cheat code.”
Meanwhile, Ohio State fans, who believed Reynolds was Columbus-bound, were equally stunned.
ESPN recruiting analyst Tom Luginbill called the commitment “one of the most significant recruiting wins for Miami in the last two decades.”
What’s Next?
With National Signing Day approaching, Miami is expected to land even more top recruits, and Reynolds’ commitment could be the catalyst for other elite players to join the Hurricanes. His presence alone makes Miami an instant contender for ACC supremacy, and if he lives up to expectations, the program could be on the fast track to a national championship run.
James Reynolds’ journey is just beginning, but one thing is certain—the Miami Hurricanes just landed a 7-foot superstar who could change college football forever.
