Miami DB signee Robert Stafford eyeing two-way role as a Hurricane: `I want to be one of the legends at Miami’

Melbourne (Fla.) Eau Gallie High School 4-star CB Robert Stafford is a signee who was not on Miami’s campus this spring – he hopes to report in May if his transcripts are received by then, otherwise in June.

In the meantime he’s preparing, preparing and then preparing some more.

“I have the Miami workout plan, and I do more stuff besides that,” Stafford said. “I do stuff with my uncle (who played running back at Western Carolina) and a trainer I have down here (Robert Mitchell, who played CB for FIU).”

Stafford says he’s put on five pounds of muscle since his senior season, so at 6-foot-0 he’s up to 175 pounds.

“I feel stronger and faster,” he said. “I’m trying to get ready for Miami.”

His goal is to have a big role on the defense as a freshman … and maybe even on offense and as a returner on special teams.

“Coaches told me I can play slot receiver when I’m used to defensive back – I did both in high,” Stafford said. “And they want me on returns, kick and punt, because they know what I can do with ball in my hands.”

Stafford came down for one of Miami’s practices this spring and says “I’m excited to get there. It was really great looking at the coverage they play and the way coach (Jahmile) Addae coached. I fit in really well. They get hyped every time a DB stops somebody. I’m going into a family environment.”

Stafford has spoken with new coordinator Lance Guidry and says he likes the system with 5 DBs.

“Four linemen and two linebackers, five DBs – I love that defense,” Stafford said. “I can fit in really well with that, and they trust us to play man coverage.”

Stafford says he’s friendly with Robby Washington, Ray Ray Joseph and Malik Bryant. One surprise for Stafford when talking with them this spring: The wakeup time.

“They said 5 a.m. and I raised my eyebrows up like `Dang!’” Stafford said. “I’ll be good on the football side, just have to get used to the little stuff like that.”

Once Stafford is acclimated to Miami, he says the goal is simple: Play well and help Miami win games.

“I’m coming in there to get on the field as early as possible,” Stafford said. “I know there’s a lot of guys above me that didn’t get a chance to play, but he (Addae) will give me a chance to play. That’s why I committed there, it’s a place I can get on the field as a true freshman. I want to make a name for myself and be one of the legends at Miami.”

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