The Miami Hurricanes have made a major splash in the transfer portal, landing 6’3″ cornerback Emmanuel Karnley from Arizona. Ranked as the 70th overall transfer and the 6th best cornerback on the market by 247Sports, Karnley is a game-changing addition to a position of need for the Canes. This is Miami’s fifth transfer commitment for the 2025 class, and the third defensive back, joining the already solidified defensive ranks with Michigan State CB Charles Brantley and Jacksonville State safety Zechariah Poyser.
Karnley brings tremendous length and physicality to the cornerback position, and he’ll reunite with former Arizona teammate, safety Isaiah Taylor, in Miami. This move propels Miami’s 2025 transfer class into the top 25, now ranked 21st overall.
In the 2024 season, Karnley recorded 15 tackles, five pass breakups, and played in 10 games, showcasing his ability to cover ground and disrupt passing plays. Although his season ended with a suspension for an altercation with a TCU player, Karnley is ready to bring his talent to Miami, where he’ll have three years of eligibility remaining.
Karnley’s addition significantly enhances Miami’s cornerback depth for the upcoming season, joining the likes of Brantley, Damari Brown, and O.J. Frederique. The Hurricanes are stacking up on defense, and this move shows their commitment to building a dominant secondary.
Miami has been aggressive in the transfer portal, already securing Louisiana Tech defensive lineman David Blay and LSU wide receiver C.J. Daniels. The Canes are far from done, with several more key players yet to commit.
With the departure of cornerback Darryl Porter, safety Mishael Powell, and cornerback Robert Stafford—who transferred to UCLA—Miami’s secondary is primed for a major upgrade in 2025. Karnley’s size, skill, and experience will help Miami compete against larger, more physical receivers, making this a crucial move in their quest for defensive dominance next season.
