Bryce Fitzgerald has quickly become a defensive powerhouse for the Miami Hurricanes, tying for the ACC lead with six interceptions. His presence in the secondary is set to be a game-changer for years to come.
Last season, the Hurricanes benefited greatly from their freshman talents, including standout wide receiver Malachi Toney, running back Girard Pringle Jr., and safety Bryce Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald made a significant impact, racking up 16 total tackles-10 solo and six assisted-along with a sack, a tackle for loss, two pass breakups, eight passes defended, and those six crucial interceptions. Sharing the ACC lead with Clemson's Ricardo Jones, Fitzgerald played in all 16 games, starting in four.
Fitzgerald's knack for clutch plays was on full display when he sealed a 10-3 victory with an interception in the College Football Playoffs against Texas A&M.
He ended the season as PFF's highest-graded freshman safety with an impressive 80.7. His stats tell the story: 304 coverage snaps, only nine catches allowed, and a passer rating against him of just 38.5.
As the Hurricanes gear up for another National Championship run, Fitzgerald is expected to step up even more, especially with veteran defensive backs Keionte Scott and Jakobe Thomas heading to the NFL draft. Fitzgerald is likely to become a staple in the starting lineup.
The team bolstered its roster with transfers Omar Thornton from Boston College and Conrad Hussey from Oregon State, while saying goodbye to Amari Wallace, who moved to Sacramento State.
Fitzgerald is poised to be a cornerstone for the Hurricanes alongside talents like Damari Brown, Xavier Lucas, Zechariah Poyzer, and OJ Frederique Jr.
Coming from Columbus High School in Miami-Dade County, Fitzgerald was a four-star recruit who showcased his ball-hawking skills with 32 tackles, 27 solos, five assists, four passes defended, and eight interceptions over two seasons.
The Hurricanes have made significant strides defensively, a trend they aim to continue with Fitzgerald anchoring the squad.
Despite boasting one of college football's top offenses in the 2024-25 season, led by quarterback Cam Ward, the Hurricanes struggled with defensive consistency. That narrative changed last season, thanks in part to defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, a Broyles Award contender.
With their sights set on claiming their first ACC Championship and reaching the National Championship stage, the Hurricanes are ready to make waves.