Miami freshman OT Jackson Cantwell met with the media after today's practice. A transcript is below:
Q: You came in with a lot of hype. After three weeks of spring practice, how would you assess how things are going for you?
Jackson Cantwell: You don’t really think about any of the high school stuff once you get here. It doesn’t matter anymore. It’s a new game—new speed, new techniques, new expectations, more physicality. It’s challenging, but I feel like my understanding of the game is improving, my technique is getting better, and I’m starting to fit into the offense more. I just have to keep grinding through the rest of spring, the summer, and fall camp. I think I can make a big jump.
Q: What was it like being around the team during the playoff run, especially so early after arriving?
Jackson Cantwell: It was really cool. It kind of felt like impostor syndrome at first—being part of a team I hadn’t practiced with much, wearing a number I’d never wear. But getting to be down there for a game was incredible. I was playing scout team defensive end, even dropped into coverage—almost had a pick. It was different from what I was used to, going from being a focal point to more of a supporting role, but it gave me a unique perspective. I just wanted to help however I could, and it helped me understand how our offense works before we even got into spring meetings.
Q: Over the last few weeks, where have you improved the most?
Jackson Cantwell: They definitely threw me into the fire. The biggest thing has been learning how to match the physicality. My pass protection has improved—staying in front of defenders—but my hands still need work. I’ve gotten better with intentionality in practice, knowing what to focus on and what to look for on film. Communication has been huge too. We do a lot with protections and identifying things in the run game, and it can change quickly. That’s something I’ve picked up on and improved steadily.
Q: How have you handled the pressure and expectations coming in as a freshman expected to contribute?
Jackson Cantwell: You’re either going to sink or swim. You’ve got to step up or fall back. I just try to compete every day. I’ve taken some lumps, but I feel like I’m giving them back too. I’m trying to keep applying pressure, especially against the defensive guys we have, and just be a functional part of the offense—don’t slow anything down. They didn’t ease me in at all. They just told me to go get it. But that’s part of it. If you want to be great, you’ve got to figure it out the hard way.
Q: How motivating was it to see how close the team got last year?
Jackson Cantwell: We were right there. It was cool to see the work ethic and attention to detail from that group—that’s a big reason they got as far as they did. Now
it’s about applying that with a newer group. Some key guys aren’t here anymore, so we’re trying to establish that same standard with the guys we have. Every team is different, so it’s not about being that team—it’s about figuring out how we do things at a high level.
Q: What’s it been like being coached by Alex Mirabal and Mario Cristobal?
Jackson Cantwell: It’s been great. There were no false promises—it’s hard coaching, but it’s very intentional and specific. There’s always a purpose behind what they’re saying. Coach Cristobal is intense, but you get used to that. It reminds me of my dad coaching me—sometimes it’s not just what’s being said, but how it’s being said. You take the coaching, simplify it, and apply it. There’s a lot of good information, and you just have to make it work for you.
Q: What’s been the biggest adjustment going from a small town to Miami?
Jackson Cantwell: Everything’s different. It’s a big change from Nixa, Missouri. College in general is different—you’ve got to handle everything yourself. Six months ago I was in high school with my parents helping with everything. Now, if you don’t take responsibility, you won’t play. I’ve had to learn to be early, be detailed, and stay on top of everything—football, academics, all of it. They expect you to be a pro here. That’s the biggest adjustment, but I love it. I love the style of football, and I love trying to operate like a pro.
