Miami Five-Star Plus+ CB commit Cormani McClain announces signing date

Lakeland (Fla.) Five-Star Plus+ cornerback Cormani McClain, a Miami commit, did not sign during the Early Signing Period in December. On Tuesday, McClain outlined the next step in his recruitment.

McClain said he is signing on Jan. 15 during a live ESPN broadcast at the Under Armour All-America Game. On that date, the talented defensive back could sign a financial aid agreement, which does not lock him into a school. On February 1, National Signing Day, McClain could then sign his National Letter of Intent, which binds him to the college of his choice on that date.

“I’m still in the same spot with my recruitment, but I’m gonna be signing Jan. 15,” McClain said.

McClain is not expected to be an early enrollee. He told On3’s Joseph Hastings after the All-America Game that he is not taking any visits ahead of his signing.

When asked what schools are in contention for his signature, the five-star said Miami. The Florida native later acknowledged that he is considering other programs, but he declined to identify them.

The 6-foot-1.5, 160-pound defensive back shared that two important factors in his decision will be the opportunity to play as a freshman and development. He originally chose the Hurricanes on Oct. 27.

“It’s been a long, long, long process,” McClain said. “Through the recruitment, (I’m) just staying on task and staying focused.”

McClain is the No. 3 overall prospect and No. 1 cornerback in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the No. 1 player in Florida.

Cormani McClain On3 Scouting Summary

The following is the On3 Scouting Summary for Cormani McClain:

“Has the best combination of stature, athleticism and ball skills among cornerback prospects in the 2023 cycle. Measured over 6-foot-1 prior to his junior season and has posted some of the best testing numbers in a combine setting we’ve seen from prospects in his cycle. A twitchy, bouncy athlete with explosive movement patterns. Pairs that athleticism with high end skill on the field. Has proven to be a ballhawk defender with nine interceptions as a sophomore and five picks midway through his junior season.

“Uses his quickness to stay in-phase with receivers off the line and long speed to turn and run downfield. Highly instinctual and plays fast. Breaks on the ball quickly. Comfortable playing off and press coverage. Doubles as a receiver, which aids in his ball skills and coordination. Would be a four-star type talent at receiver if he chose. Has a thinner frame at 165 pounds and will need to continue adding bulk. Older for the class.”