The first day of fall camp for the Miami RedHawks was marked by a blend of fresh faces, updated practice gear and a renewed focus on fundamentals. Players took the field in new red defensive jerseys, white offensive shirts and gray quarterback tops, while coaches emphasized footwork, leverage and positioning as core building blocks for the upcoming season.
A New Linebacker Arrives
Redshirt junior CJ Young stepped onto the practice field after completing a transfer from Kent State, where he had logged 89 tackles and eight tackles for loss in 2025. His arrival was greeted with praise from head coach Chuck Martin, who noted that Young’s experience in the Mid‑American Conference would add depth and versatility to the RedHawks’ front seven.
Beyond his statistical achievements, Young’s skill set aligns with the coaching staff’s philosophy of anticipation over guesswork. Martin highlighted that the team is evaluating players based on their ability to read plays instinctively, a trait Young demonstrated during his time in the MAC.
Standout Performances in Practice
The session showcased several bright spots. Transfer Devin Hyatt, who came over from Arizona, made a 40‑yard gain by securing a pass over his shoulder, while speedster Scoop Smith, a 5‑foot‑5 standout from Pittsburgh, produced a long gain and a touchdown catch during 7‑on‑7 drills. Meanwhile, returning linebacker Brock Uihlein earned commendations for his natural playmaking instincts, having previously contributed to a MAC Championship Game run.
Family Reunion on the Horizon
A storyline that adds extra intrigue is the impending late‑season matchup against Kent State on November 17. The game will feature Young’s brother, freshman offensive lineman Quinten, who is also on the Golden Flashes roster. The prospect of brothers facing off on opposite sides of the ball has generated buzz among fans and players alike.
In addition to on‑field action, the camp coincides with the rollout of a new documentary series titled "Cradle of Coaches," which will spotlight the program’s history and the influential figures who have shaped its trajectory. The series is slated to premiere later this year, further cementing Miami’s commitment to storytelling and community engagement.