Honor Fa’alave-Johnson narrowed his recruitment Wednesday and kept Miami in the mix.
The five-star safety from San Diego released a top 10 that features USC, Oregon, Notre Dame, Penn State, Miami, Texas, Alabama, Ohio State, Oklahoma and Texas A&M.
Fa’alave-Johnson told Hayes Fawcett that USC and Alabama “set the pace” right now, while the rest of the group trails closely behind. That quote lets Mario Cristobal and his staff know the Hurricanes have some catching up to do.
Fa’alave-Johnson carries a skill set that fits modern roster-building. Rivals lists him as the No. 16 prospect and No. 1 safety in the 2027 class, and the No. 1 player in California. He posted 38 tackles, four pass breakups and two interceptions on defense in 2025, then added 1,265 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns while averaging 9.9 yards per carry. He also grabbed 35 receptions for 564 yards and seven more scores.
Fa’alave-Johnson projects as a legitimate two-way option who could play safety, corner, receiver or running back at the next level, with verified top-end speed and room to add strength. Miami can sell that versatility in a defense that asks safeties to cover space, trigger downhill and match up with big slots.`
Miami made the top 10. That part counts. The next part decides everything: turn “finalist” into “factor,” then turn “factor” into “finish.”
Leave a Reply