We have to give credit to Frank Tucker. He pounded the table for the kid a long time ago. Fortunately the staff respects his word and they gave Gourdine heavy consideration. It took a while for them to come around but after seeing enough game film the DB coaches fell in love.
He's still underrated and that's fine. Miami's defensive staff doesn't give a **** about stars. They're watching GAME FILM. They're looking at physicality, body language, technique, etc. They're even looking at what the kid does on the sideline while he's injured. Is he chilling on the bench, is he engaged, what's his body language like?
They even have a thing called "Point Of Attack" tape, were they do a cut-up of every time the player has to engage in any form of physicality. (i.e. taking on blocks, tackling, filling the alley, etc) Gourdine has a play on his tape versus Chaminade where he actually knocks himself out smacking a WR on a jet sweep (in the 4th quarter).
The POA tape for Jaylyn Jones and Sherod Gourdine are some of the best in the country. (not my words)