Missouri High Schooler Jackson Cantwell Signs Multi-Million Dollar NIL Deal with Miami Hurricanes
The Miami Hurricanes have landed a major coup in the 2026 recruiting class, securing the commitment of highly-touted offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell from Nixa High School in Missouri. The deal, reportedly worth millions, marks a significant investment by the Hurricanes and underscores the evolving landscape of college athletics in the age of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements.
Initial reports from On3Sports suggested a $2 million NIL offer from Miami to Cantwell on May 7th. While the final figure remains unconfirmed, it’s widely believed to be substantially higher, potentially exceeding the $1.5 million offer reportedly made by the Georgia Bulldogs, another school vying for Cantwell’s services. The sheer magnitude of the deal is remarkable, especially considering Cantwell is still just 16 years old.
Cantwell’s exceptional talent extends beyond the football field. He’s a nationally recognized track and field champion and boasts an impressive academic record, scoring a 33 on his ACT as an eighth-grader. This combination of athletic prowess and academic achievement makes him a truly exceptional prospect, worthy of the “generational” tag often applied to him.
The acquisition of Cantwell represents a significant victory for the Miami Hurricanes, particularly given their competition with recruiting powerhouses like Georgia and Oregon. While Miami is a prominent program, it hasn’t consistently dominated recruiting cycles in recent years, making Cantwell’s commitment all the more impressive.
However, Cantwell himself has emphasized that the decision wasn’t solely driven by financial incentives. He publicly refuted narratives suggesting the deal was the primary factor, specifically mentioning On3Sports reporter Pete Nakos. Instead, Cantwell highlighted the strong relationships he forged with the Hurricanes coaching staff during the recruitment process. He praised their dedication and the time invested in him, suggesting that the personal connection played a crucial role in his decision.
The financial aspect, while substantial, was handled professionally and fairly, according to Cantwell, who also acknowledged the role of his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, in ensuring equitable compensation from all interested schools.
Beyond the financial aspects, Cantwell’s choice to join Miami makes strategic sense. The Hurricanes boast a highly respected offensive line coaching staff, with Mario Cristobal and Alex Mirabal recognized as leaders in their field. Under their tutelage, Cantwell is well-positioned to develop into a potential first-round NFL draft pick. This combination of financial reward, strong coaching, and personal connection makes Miami an ideal environment for Cantwell to thrive.
