Marshall Thundering Herd

Miami Hurricanes dismiss two standout defenders ahead of opener

Published Nov. 15, 2016 3:46 p.m. ET

Bruce Feldman

Miami’s rebuilding hopes took to a huge jolt Saturday morning when red-shirt junior defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad and senior linebacker Jeremaine Grace were permanently dismissed from the Hurricanes football program for violating NCAA rules.

The 6-4, 250-pound Muhammad was UM’s most proven D-lineman. He had breakout season for Miami in 2015, finishing third with 54 total tackles and leading the team in tackles for loss (8.5) and sacks (5.0).

The 6-1, 210-pound Grace was expected to provide veteran leadership to an extremely young group of linebackers. He had a team-best 79 tackles last season.

"The University will, however, continue their financial aid through graduation,” UM said in a statement. "The decision was made in consultation with outside counsel and after discussions with the NCAA enforcement staff. As no staff members or boosters were involved in the violations, the program will not be subject to sanctions and, at this time, the University deems this matter closed."

Both players were being investigated since the summer for their roles in using luxury vehicles. Linebacker Juwon Young had also been part of that investigation and has since transferred to Marshall. Junior Trent Harris is expected to try and pick up the slack for Muhammad on the D-line, while freshman Zach McCloud is projected to push for Grace’s old strongside linebacker spot.

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Marshall Thundering Herd