Miami Football: Way-too-Early 2022 Depth Chart Projection

Secondary

Starting Cornerbacks: Tyrique Stevenson and DJ Ivey

Backups: Te’Cory Couch and Marcus Clarke

Starting Safeties: James Williams and Avantae Williams

Backups: Kamren Kinchens and Brian Balom

The secondary is a tale of two positions. At cornerback, there is some experience but lacks a truly elite player. At safety, there is NFL talent and depth.

Tyrique Stevenson was Miami’s best corner last season and elected to come back for another season. He is a talented player but had moments last season when he was inconsistent. The other starting cornerback job will be earned by either DJ Ivey or Te’Cory Couch. Ivey is the more experienced of the group, but gives up plays in coverage and has not lived up to his talent level. Couch’s biggest problem is tackling. He is a terrible tackler and must get much better in that area if he wants to be a starter.

Look for Marcus Clarke to challenge the other corners for major playing time. Clarke was solid and flashed in limited action last season. Other guys at corner will be former four-star recruit and veteran player Al Blades Jr, alongside freshmen Chris Graves and Khamauri Rogers.

At safety, James Williams is ready to be the next great player at the position for Miami. Williams is athletically gifted and one of the highest-rated recruits to ever sign with Miami. On the other side will be either Avantae Williams or Kamren Kinchens. Both guys played last season and showed that the future of this position is bright.

Backups at safety will be either Brian Balom, Keyshawn Washington, or Jalen Harrell.