Hurricanes pick up commitment from four-star linebacker AJ Randle Jr.
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Miami picked up a blue-chip defender for its 2027 recruiting class on Thursday.
Four-star linebacker Aroson “AJ” Randle Jr. committed to the Hurricanes, announcing his decision on 247Sports’ YouTube channel. He chose Miami over offers from Florida, Georgia, Ohio State and South Carolina, among others. It was UM’s second commitment of the day after four-star offensive lineman Jatori Williams committed earlier in the afternoon.
“They just did an awesome job recruiting me,” Randle said on the stream. “The staff was excellent. And coach (Mario) Cristobal, coach (Corey) Heatherman, from top to bottom, they just did everything right by me. And so I really appreciate them for that and just giving me this opportunity.”
The pair of commitments on Thursday vaulted the Hurricanes into the No. 3 spot in 247Sports’ class rankings.
Randle said he informed the UM staff that he was committing to Miami over a week ago.
“Just to be on the phone with coach Cristobal, he was so amped and excited,” Randle said. “I think he’s already ready for me to come and be a part of the team now in Miami now. He’s ready for me to come now. So I’m excited about the opportunity. It’s a great place with great people. The recruiting class we got coming in is pretty good, so I’m excited to be a part of it.”
Randle, a North Carolina native, is listed as the No. 6 linebacker and No. 95 player in the class, according to 247Sports’ composite rankings.
Randle, who is listed at 6-3 and 210 pounds, is the younger brother of former NFL linebacker Brandon Bouyer-Randle. Bouyer-Randle is currently playing in the CFL. His mother, Nikkie Bouyer-Randle, is a Hall of Famer at Clemson after winning three ACC titles in track at Clemson.
Randle played on both sides of the ball at Garner High last year. He had 84 tackles, six tackles for loss, three forced fumbles and one interception last season. He also had 20 carries for 119 yards and four touchdowns, and he caught two more scores.
Randle is the first linebacker in the Hurricanes’ 2027 class.
“I think on the field, I’m a versatile athlete,” Randle said. “I think I can do a lot of good things for my team and just be a good leader for my team. And then off the field, I just like to make people laugh and brighten up the days of my teammates, my friends, my family, just anyone who may not be having the best day.”
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