Twin Defensive Ends Darryll and Mandrell Desir Decommit from Florida State, Sign with Miami Hurricanes Over Penn State and Nebraska
In the ever-evolving world of college football recruiting, the unexpected often occurs. This season, the story of twin defensive ends Darryll and Mandrell Desir is a testament to how quickly the tides can shift when it comes to high school talent. The talented duo recently made waves by decommitting from Florida State University (FSU), a program they had pledged to earlier, and signing with the University of Miami Hurricanes over other elite programs like Penn State and Nebraska. Their decision has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, and it promises to have lasting implications on the future of the programs involved.
The Desir Twins: A Unique Recruiting Story
Darryll and Mandrell Desir, both towering figures at 6’4″ and weighing in at around 240 pounds, were initially recruited as twin defensive ends with immense potential. Both are highly regarded for their explosive first steps, ability to set the edge, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback. Growing up together in a competitive environment, the Desir brothers honed their skills through years of training and playing together, making them one of the most intriguing recruitments in recent memory.
From the outset of their recruitment, the twins’ shared bond was a focal point for the schools vying for their commitment. The Desirs were clear that they intended to play at the same school, and that decision would inevitably shape the direction of their recruitment. As elite recruits, they had multiple high-profile suitors, and schools across the country lined up to make their case.
After months of visits, interviews, and evaluations, both Darryll and Mandrell committed to Florida State University in the fall of 2023. The commitment was seen as a major win for FSU, which has a storied tradition of producing NFL-caliber defensive players. The Seminoles’ coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Norvell, offered a promising future to the twins, with both being projected as immediate contributors to the defense.
However, as the 2024 recruiting cycle progressed, their commitment to FSU began to show signs of wavering. The challenges of balancing their loyalty to Florida State with the allure of other programs with different opportunities proved to be a defining crossroads for the Desir brothers.
The Decommitment: A Shift in Priorities
The announcement of the Desir twins decommitting from FSU shocked many in the recruiting world. The timing was also notable, as they chose to make this decision during the height of the recruiting season, which would only intensify the scrutiny surrounding their choice.
Several factors appear to have played a role in their decision. For one, both players had been experiencing growing interest from a number of powerhouse programs, each offering their own unique advantages. The Desir twins had developed relationships with coaches from programs such as Penn State, Nebraska, and, most notably, the University of Miami Hurricanes.
In particular, Miami’s defensive coaching staff, led by head coach Mario Cristobal and defensive coordinator Lance Guidry, played a significant role in swaying the twins’ decision. The Hurricanes’ aggressive recruiting approach, combined with the allure of playing in a major college football conference, helped put Miami in a strong position.
Another factor that played into their decommitment was the evolving landscape of Florida State’s program. Despite the Seminoles’ success in recent seasons, there were concerns about roster depth and the overall trajectory of the defense. In contrast, programs like Miami, Penn State, and Nebraska presented the Desirs with a chance to play in highly competitive environments with different defensive schemes that could enhance their development as elite players.
Why Miami?
Ultimately, the Desir twins chose to sign with the Miami Hurricanes over other prestigious programs, including Penn State and Nebraska. This decision, while surprising to some, makes sense when one considers the full picture of the recruitment process.
Miami’s Recruiting Momentum
Miami has experienced a significant surge in recruiting under head coach Mario Cristobal, who took over the program in 2022. Cristobal’s vision for building a powerhouse in the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) has resonated with recruits, and the Hurricanes have made a concerted effort to bolster their defense. With the Desir twins on board, Miami will have two formidable defensive ends who can contribute immediately.
Miami’s defense has been steadily improving, and the addition of Darryll and Mandrell Desir is a clear indication that Cristobal and his staff are focused on building a championship-caliber unit. By signing the twin defensive ends, Miami gains two dynamic athletes who will likely fit perfectly into their defensive system.
The proximity of Miami to their home in Florida also provided an additional comfort factor. With both players coming from the state, the opportunity to stay close to home and represent the Hurricanes was likely a significant consideration. Miami’s football culture, rich history, and reputation as a national contender in the 1980s and 1990s were also factors that played into their decision.
The Role of the Coaching Staff
The Desir twins had built a strong rapport with Miami’s defensive coaches, particularly Lance Guidry, who is known for his ability to develop defensive linemen into NFL-caliber players. Guidry’s experience and success at previous stops, including his time at Tulane, made a lasting impression on the twins. He had a clear plan for how he envisioned both players contributing to Miami’s defense.
Cristobal’s presence also played a crucial role. Known for his emphasis on discipline, work ethic, and culture building, Cristobal has shown that he is committed to restoring Miami to national prominence. The Desir twins were drawn to the combination of Cristobal’s leadership and Guidry’s specialized coaching.
A Bright Future in the ACC
The ACC has been a competitive conference, but Miami is on the rise. The opportunity to play in the ACC and challenge top-tier teams like Clemson, Florida State, and North Carolina was an attractive proposition for the Desir twins. The prospect of playing in major bowl games and eventually the College Football Playoff (CFP) made Miami a very appealing destination.
Additionally, Miami’s facilities and overall support system are top-notch, ensuring that the Desirs will have the tools to succeed both on and off the field.
The Competition: Penn State and Nebraska
While Miami ultimately won out, the Desir twins had several strong suitors, particularly Penn State and Nebraska. Both programs are known for their solid defensive traditions and their consistent presence in the Big Ten and Big 12, respectively.
Penn State, with its long history of producing elite NFL talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, presented a strong case for the Desir twins. The Nittany Lions’ defensive line has been one of the most consistent units in the nation, and the chance to play for James Franklin, a coach who has a reputation for developing elite defensive players, was a major draw.
Nebraska, under head coach Matt Rhule, also put forth a compelling case. The Cornhuskers have been in rebuilding mode, but Rhule’s track record of turning programs around, especially on defense, made Nebraska an attractive option. Rhule’s focus on creating a tough, physical defensive identity fit well with the Desirs’ style of play.
Ultimately, however, both programs could not compete with the allure of Miami’s proximity, defensive scheme, and momentum under Cristobal. It was clear that the Desirs saw their best chance for success in Coral Gables.
