When James Coley made the move from Florida State to Miami a few months ago, his recruiting impact was felt almost immediately. The 40-year old offensive coordinator has made his presence felt in a major way in the search for a quarterback as well. From the looks of things, 2014 QB Brad Kaaya (6’4”, 215) of Chaminade High School in West Hills, California could be that 2nd quarterback the ‘Canes are looking for in this class. Kaaya described how the school from across the country discovered him.
“One of the ways Coach Coley found out about me was through the Under Armour combine with the reports and all that. He (Coley) told me personally that he was looking for a guy 6’3” or over who fit the style of play at Miami and I was one of the guys that met the criteria,” said Kaaya.
Miami was Kaaya’s first offer back in mid-March, which has left an impression on the gunslinger.
“I was constantly talking to Coach Coley before the offer came up and he was telling me that he wanted me to play for him. The offer came and it was a surprise to me, but it’s really good for Miami to be my first offer. It’s a school that I’ve always liked their style of play because it’s really enjoyable to watch on TV. I even remember going back to when I was little, the 2002 Rose Bowl with Dorsey at quarterback. It was just big for me and my family emotionally to get that offer.”
Since then, Coley and Kaaya have been in constant contact.
“Coach Coley reached out to me really early and I’ve gotten a really genuine vibe from both him and Coach Golden. I’m talking to Coach Coley every single day. Everything from him so far has been solid and straightforward.”
There doesn't seem to be much indecision from Kaaya on who leads for his services.
“Miami is without a doubt on top of my list. I’m planning on making a decision in the next month. June is when I want to make the commitment. ASU, UCLA, Stanford, and Oklahoma State are all schools I’ve liked and San Diego State is a school that has offered me and I would be able to see the field early.”
The physically-gifted quarterback from Cali feels like he has all the makings of a great one.
“I feel like I’m the best at making it happen and operating things. That doesn’t just mean being a quarterback and throwing it downfield and making reads, it’s moving the offense down the field, making sure everyone is in the right spot at the right time, making sure everyone’s on the same page, and making checks at the line.”
He plans on camping at Miami next month.
“I want to go June 1st because I heard a lot of big-time guys will be there and I want to bring some guys from my school too.”
**His school uses a multiple offensive system.
**EJ Manuel is a quarterback who Kaaya watches film on.
**Visited Miami last month and also has family in Miami.
