Senior OL Donaldson opting to redshirt in 2020

New offensive line coach Garin Justice will have a new challenge in front of him this season as Miami’s most experienced lineman, OG Navaughn Donaldson, has opted to redshirt this season in order to “focus on me”.

After talking to family and the coaching staff I decided to redshirt and focus on me this season.

— Navaughn Donaldson (@55_world_) June 24, 2020

This is a big loss for the offensive line this season as he was slated to be the starter at right guard. He’s started 34 of the 38 games he’s played in, including all 12 in 2019. Donaldson even earned an All-ACC Honorable Mention during his freshman season 2017. 

Cleveland Reed is looking like the incumbent starter at right guard for the meantime.

The good news for Canes fans is that the 6’6” 363 lb. mammoth Donaldson should be ready for the Chik-Fil A Kickoff Game in 2021 when Miami faces Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide in Atlanta.

Luckily, Miami added a couple of transfers that can offset the absence of Donaldson. Most recently, Houston grad transfer Jarrid Williams announced his intentions to play out his final year of eligibility in Coral Gables and should fill in at one of tackle spots. 

The Canes are also awaiting on the eligibility of Florida transfer Issiah Walker, the former Miami Norland tackle who only spent a few months in Gainesville and made his move back home due to a family situation. If Walker’s waiver is approved, it would be no surprise if he gets immediate playing time at the left tackle spot.