The No. 9 Miami Hurricanes are hoping to bolster their secondary as they prepare for their final home game of the season against Wake Forest. Cornerback Damari Brown, who was initially expected to be the team’s top cornerback, is inching closer to a return after an early-season injury sidelined him.
Brown, who suffered an injury in the season opener against Florida, had been a promising talent and was poised to lead Miami’s secondary. His absence has left a significant gap, with the Hurricanes’ defense struggling and relying on freshmen to step up in his place. Despite the challenges, some of the younger players have exceeded expectations in filling his shoes.
Head coach Mario Cristobal has been cautious with injury updates but has praised Brown’s resilience during his recovery. “I think it’s helped him come out of his shell a little bit. Damari comes from a great family, and he’s a reserved, focused individual. Going through an injury like this has forced him to engage in new ways. We don’t let players isolate during injury, and it’s been important for him to stay mentally engaged,” Cristobal said.
Cristobal also highlighted Brown’s growth during his time off the field, both personally and in terms of his engagement with the team. “He looks great. This week is a big one for him as he takes on more reps in practice, as close to game action as possible. We’re working hard to get him ready,” Cristobal added.
The Hurricanes are hopeful that Brown will be able to return to action before the College Football Playoff begins, with the game against Wake Forest serving as a potential opportunity to ease him back into competition before the final regular-season matchup against Syracuse.