After watching several juniors turn pro and then go late in the draft or not at all in recent years, UM decided to meet with its draft-eligible players earlier than usual. And there’s optimism that the Canes will hold onto most, if not all, of their juniors.
Defensive coordinator Manny Diaz confirmed Tuesday he has met with junior linebackers Shaq Quarterman, Mike Pinckney and Zach McCloud and defensive end Joe Jackson.
None are projected as first-round picks, with Jackson (six sacks, 12 tackles for loss, interception return for a touchdown) considered by some analysts to be the best prospect in that group.