Miami Hurricanes NFL Free Agency Tracker: KJ Osborn, Braxton Berrios, Gus Edwards, and Other Updates
Miami Hurricanes NFL Free Agency Tracker: KJ Osborn, Braxton Berrios, Gus Edwards, and Other Updates
As the NFL offseason continues to unfold, one of the most exciting aspects for fans of college football programs is watching their former players navigate the free agency market. For the University of Miami Hurricanes, this year’s NFL free agency period is no different. With multiple former Hurricanes players—some already established stars, others seeking to make a bigger impact—on the move or negotiating new contracts, the NFL’s free agency frenzy has been a key focus for Miami fans.
Among the most notable Hurricanes players currently involved in free agency discussions are wide receiver KJ Osborn, wide receiver Braxton Berrios, and running back Gus Edwards. These players have all carved out strong careers in the NFL, but each one finds themselves at a different stage in their careers as they weigh their options moving forward. Beyond these three, there are also several other former Miami players who have garnered attention in the free agent market.
This article will track the latest moves, signings, and updates involving former Miami Hurricanes players in the NFL, providing an in-depth look at their potential new homes and the impact of their decisions. From proven veterans to up-and-coming stars, here’s everything you need to know about the Miami Hurricanes’ NFL free agency scene.
KJ Osborn: A Star on the Rise
One of the most exciting stories coming out of this year’s free agency period is the continued rise of KJ Osborn, the Minnesota Vikings’ wide receiver. Osborn, who played for the Hurricanes from 2016 to 2018, has seen his stock steadily rise since entering the NFL as a fifth-round draft pick in 2020. Initially serving as a depth piece for the Vikings, Osborn broke out in 2022, emerging as a consistent and reliable target for quarterback Kirk Cousins. His performances in 2022 and 2023 cemented his role as a key contributor in the Vikings’ high-powered offense, especially with Adam Thielen leaving the team.
Osborn’s combination of speed, sharp route-running, and reliability in clutch moments has made him a key player for Minnesota. In 2022, Osborn posted 60 receptions for 650 yards and 7 touchdowns, while also showcasing his ability to make key plays in critical moments. His rapport with Cousins has become evident, and he’s proven to be a capable threat alongside the more established receiver, Justin Jefferson.
As free agency opened, speculation about Osborn’s future was rife. Could the Vikings look to re-sign him? Would he test the market to find a more prominent role on another team? The answer came quickly—Osborn signed a three-year contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings worth around $18 million, ensuring his future with the team for the next few seasons.
This extension shows that the Vikings see Osborn as a crucial piece of their future, and he will likely continue to have an expanded role in the offense moving forward. Given the Vikings’ offensive firepower, Osborn’s continued development could result in even more opportunities for him to shine, particularly as the Vikings look to remain competitive in the NFC North.
For Miami Hurricanes fans, Osborn’s success in the NFL is a testament to the program’s ability to develop players who can contribute at the highest level. His growth from a solid college player at Miami to an emerging NFL talent is one of the most promising stories of recent years, and his continued success is something fans back in Coral Gables can take great pride in.
Braxton Berrios: Looking for a Fresh Start
Another former Hurricane who is in the spotlight this offseason is Braxton Berrios, the dynamic wide receiver and return specialist who spent the past few seasons with the New York Jets. Berrios, who was drafted by the Jets in 2018, quickly made a name for himself as one of the NFL’s top return specialists, earning an All-Pro selection in 2021. His ability to return kicks and punts, coupled with his speed and playmaking ability, made him a fan favorite in New York.
However, despite his special teams success, Berrios’ role as a regular wide receiver was more limited in New York. With the emergence of other playmakers on the Jets’ roster, including Garrett Wilson and Elijah Moore, Berrios found it difficult to secure a consistent role in the offense. This led to questions about his future in New York, and ultimately, Berrios became one of the most intriguing free agents this offseason.
As free agency opened, Berrios’ name was connected to several teams, particularly those in need of an experienced return man and a versatile wide receiver. One of the most logical landing spots for Berrios was the Miami Dolphins, given his connection to head coach Mike McDaniel—McDaniel was an assistant coach with the Jets during Berrios’ time there. The Dolphins were also in need of a dynamic return specialist and a player who could provide depth to their wide receiver corps, making Berrios a natural fit.
Miami ultimately signed Berrios to a two-year, $10 million contract, giving him a chance to compete for a more prominent role in the Dolphins’ offense. While Berrios’ primary role will likely be as a return specialist, his ability to contribute as a wide receiver and even in the slot will provide the Dolphins with added versatility.
Berrios’ potential to be a valuable contributor to Miami’s offense is clear, and his addition to the team provides the Dolphins with a seasoned player who can step in and make an immediate impact on both offense and special teams. For Miami Hurricanes fans, the addition of Berrios to the Dolphins is an exciting development, as it brings a familiar face back to South Florida. Berrios’ playmaking ability and strong connection to Miami make him a fan favorite, and his presence in Miami is sure to be a source of excitement.
Gus Edwards: Steady Force in the Ravens’ Backfield
While wide receivers like Osborn and Berrios have garnered a lot of attention during this year’s free agency period, former Miami running back Gus Edwards has been quietly but steadily making a name for himself in the NFL, particularly with the Baltimore Ravens. Edwards, known for his tough running style and ability to pick up yards after contact, has been a consistent contributor for the Ravens since joining the team as an undrafted free agent in 2018.
Edwards has always been a reliable backup to J.K. Dobbins, and in recent seasons, he has stepped up in a larger role due to injuries to Dobbins. Edwards has proven that he can handle a heavy workload, as demonstrated in 2021, when he rushed for 723 yards and 6 touchdowns despite sharing carries in a run-heavy offense. His unique combination of size, speed, and vision makes him a perfect fit for the Ravens’ system, and he has become one of the more underrated running backs in the league.
This offseason, Edwards found himself a free agent after his rookie contract expired, leading to widespread speculation about his future. Would he return to the Ravens, or would another team take a chance on him as a potential starter or part of a committee? The Ravens quickly made the decision to bring back Edwards on a two-year contract extension worth $7 million, a deal that ensures he will remain a key piece of Baltimore’s running game.
For Miami fans, Edwards’ success in the NFL is a testament to the power of the University of Miami’s running back program. While he was often overshadowed during his time at Miami by more high-profile running backs, Edwards has shown that his hard-nosed running style and dedication to his craft make him a valuable commodity in the NFL. His ability to maintain a steady presence in the backfield, despite playing behind other top talents, is a reflection of his consistency and work ethic.
Other Former Miami Hurricanes in Free Agency
While Osborn, Berrios, and Edwards have been among the most high-profile former Hurricanes in this year’s free agency market, there are several other former Miami players who are also making waves:
- DJ Dallas (RB – Seattle Seahawks): Dallas, a versatile back who has been a key part of Seattle’s special teams unit and running back rotation, is a restricted free agent this year. Dallas’ ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield makes him an attractive option for teams in need of depth at the running back position.
- Trajan Bandy (CB – Free Agent): Bandy, a talented cornerback who had a strong collegiate career with the Hurricanes, has been working to find a permanent home in the NFL. After spending some time on practice squads, Bandy is now looking for a new opportunity to make his mark as a rotational or starting cornerback in the league.
- Michael Irvin II (TE – New Orleans Saints): Irvin, the son of Hall of Famer Michael Irvin, has shown flashes of potential at tight end during his time with the Saints. While his future is uncertain, his combination of size and athleticism could make him an intriguing prospect for teams in need of a dynamic tight end.
- Jarrid Williams (OT – Free Agent): After spending time with the Houston Texans and other NFL teams, Williams is seeking a new opportunity to secure a full-time starting role on an NFL offensive line. His experience and versatility as a tackle make him a valuable depth piece for teams with offensive line concerns.
