Missouri’s defense is set to take a significant hit in the transfer portal, as one of its top performers from the 2025 season is reportedly on the move. A new report indicates that the Tigers will be losing a proven pass rusher to a national contender looking to take the final step toward a championship.
According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Mizzou edge standout is transferring to Miami. Thamel reported Thursday afternoon that Damon Wilson II, ranked as the No. 9 overall player on ESPN’s transfer portal board, has committed to Mario Cristobal’s rapidly rising Hurricanes program. The move comes shortly after Miami’s appearance in the national championship game, where the Hurricanes ultimately fell to Indiana. Wilson is expected to be part of Miami’s push to get back to that stage and finish the job in 2026.
Wilson put together a breakout campaign during his lone season in Columbia. He earned second team All SEC honors after finishing third in the conference with nine sacks while also leading Missouri with 12 quarterback hurries. His impact went well beyond the box score, as he consistently disrupted opposing backfields throughout the season.
In 13 games in 2025, Wilson totaled 23 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and those nine sacks. Pro Football Focus credited him with 54 total quarterback pressures, one of the highest figures among edge defenders in college football. That production quickly elevated his profile after arriving from Georgia, where he spent the first two years of his college career.
A native of Venice, Florida, Wilson now returns to his home state after just one season at Mizzou. He was a five star recruit in the Class of 2023 and appeared in 26 games with the Bulldogs before transferring and becoming a star in the SEC. At Miami, the 6 foot 4, 250 pound defender will look to help replace Akheem Mesidor and Rueben Bain while adjusting to life in the ACC after three seasons competing in the SEC.