Manny Diaz and The New Miami added a major piece to its 2020 recruiting class on Sunday when Oakleaf Top247 offensive lineman Jalen Rivers went public with a verbal pledge to the Hurricanes.

Rivers, who is the nation's No. 15 ranked offensive tackle this cycle according to the industry-generated composite, was also considering both Florida and Georgia.

“I picked Miami because I just feel like it’s for me,” Rivers told 247Sports and InsideTheU over the phone. “I felt it in my heart. I like the coaching staff and I love the area. I just like the overall feel of Miami. You couldn’t ask for a better place.”

Rivers was in Coral Gables two months ago for an unofficial visit. That's apparently when Diaz and the Hurricanes were able to seal the deal.

"[Coach Diaz] just wants to build the program and make it better," Rivers said. "As a person I love being around him. He's great to talk to. We were in a meeting with him the last time we were down there and it was great. That was the most I have ever talked to a head coach in a meeting."

Butch Barry also played a major role in the decision.

"He's willing to get the most out of his players, but he's also very detailed with his work and that's what I like about him," Rivers said. "He doesn't care if you get upset about what he's trying telling you, it's all for a good cause because he's trying to make you a better player and a better person."

Rivers has said in the past that he wants to major in computer science and that his family is intrigued by the small class sizes at Miami.

"That's one of the main reasons right there," he said

The fact that the Hurricanes need help on the offensive line was taken into consideration, as well.

"I was kind of looking at that," he said. "But that wasn't the main reason. That's just a plus."

Rivers is on track to enroll early. He plans to shut down his recruitment and just focus on his upcoming senior season now that he's committed.

"Miami is my school," he said.

Rivers, who measured 6-6, 331 pounds at The Opening Orlando back in February, is in line to become the highest ranked non South Florida-based high school offensive lineman to sign with the Hurricanes since Harland Gunn back in 2007 given his .9382 rating on the composite.

The Under Armour All-American becomes commit No. 16 for Miami in the Class of 2020.

The group is headlined by Belen Jesuit five star running back Don Chaney. It also includes Top247 recruits like Palm Beach Central wide receiver Bryan Robinson, Miami Northwestern wide receiver Marcus Fleming, McDougle Technical Institute defensive end Samuel Anaele, South Dade cornerback Jaiden Francois and Naples tight end Dominic Mammarelli.

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