Damon Wilson II is officially headed to Miami, giving the Hurricanes a major boost on defense ahead of the 2026 season. The former Missouri edge rusher, ranked No. 8 overall in the 247Sports Transfer Rankings and No. 2 among EDGE rushers, chose Miami over LSU, Texas Tech, and other top programs. His commitment fills a critical need for the Hurricanes, who are replacing both of their top pass rushers from last season’s national runner-up team.
Wilson transferred to Missouri ahead of the 2025 season and quickly emerged as one of the SEC’s most productive defenders. He led the Tigers with nine sacks, ranking third in the conference, and earned second-team All-SEC honors. He also recorded a team-high 12 quarterback pressures and added an interception, consistently disrupting opposing offenses throughout the season.
Shortly after announcing his decision, Wilson delivered an emotional message about his time at Missouri. He said he deeply misses Columbia and described the Tigers as the place where he truly felt at home, adding that the relationships he built there will stay with him forever. “Mizzou is home,” Wilson said. “That’s where I felt the most trust and support, and where I really became the player I am today. I’ll always miss Missouri.”
A former top-50 high school recruit from Venice, Florida, Wilson began his college career at Georgia, where he spent two seasons before transferring to Missouri. After limited action as a true freshman, he earned a rotational role in his second year at Georgia, recording 22 tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles before finding his breakout performance with the Tigers.
Now with Miami, Wilson is expected to step into an immediate starting role alongside returning EDGE Marquise Lightfoot. With Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor off to the NFL, the Hurricanes are counting on Wilson to help replace significant production, all while carrying the emotional connection to Missouri that shaped him both on and off the field.
