Zaquan Patterson Thanks Hurricanes Fans, Coaches as He Exits Miami Football

Last season the Miami Hurricanes had a true freshman safety that flashed who many expected to be the starter this coming season … former Hollywood (Fla.) Chaminade-Madonna High School star Zaquan Patterson. He played in every game, starting one, and ended with 19 tackles and three pass breakups, but also did have some busts.

Now those Cane fans that expected to see him roaming the Miami secondary in 2025 will be watching a different last name on the jersey out at Hard Rock Stadium.

Patterson has made the decision to enter the transfer portal – he missed spring football with a torn ligament in his thumb suffered in the Virginia Tech game last year but is close to 100 percent off it.

Patterson and his uncle who is guiding him in the transfer process, Manny Rivas, told CaneSport this evening that they want the reasons for the transfer kept private.

“It’s just a mutual agreement to part ways,” Rivas told CaneSport. “Miami has been great to us, we love the city, have no issues with the staff, appreciate everything Miami’s staff has done for us.”

Rivas also says since Patterson’s decision became public “the phone has been burning” with third parties from programs reaching out to try and nab the talented safety.

“It has to make sense, we’re not in a rush,” Rivas said.

As for Patterson?

He has a message for Miami coaches and fans.

“It just was not the right place, right time,” Patterson said. “It has nothing to do with the program. Mario Cristobal and everyone in that facility are great people.

“I want to thank all the Canes fans as well. They’ve been a big part of my support. They made me feel at home. From the day I committed to now they all showed major love.”

With Patterson gone, there isn’t much experienced talent at safety, with transfer Zechariah Poyser the lone guy that’s played significant reps. Miami will be looking for safety help in the portal.

*Also transferring out will be DT Josh Horton, who missed spring injured and has been a career backup.

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