Wide receiver Vance Spafford, a highly regarded recruit from Mission Viejo, California, announced Monday that he has decommitted from the University of Georgia and will instead join the Miami Hurricanes.
In an interview with 247Sports, Spafford cited Miami’s strong team chemistry and winning mindset as key reasons behind his decision. “The team really plays as one unit,” he said. “It’s made up of elite talent.”
A major factor in his choice was the presence of quarterback Carson Beck—formerly of Georgia—now at Miami. Spafford was impressed by Miami’s offensive line and how much time Beck had in the pocket. “They throw the ball a lot and do it well,” he added. “It’s a program that draws top players and has a winning culture. That was hard to pass up.”
Spafford is ranked No. 9 among wide receivers and No. 74 overall in the 2026 recruiting class, according to the 247Sports composite rankings. He had previously committed to Georgia last November and has taken official visits to USC, UCLA, Washington, Miami, and Georgia since late May.
He joins Miami as head coach Mario Cristobal enters his fourth season. The Hurricanes are coming off a 10-3 season (6-2 in ACC play) and will open their 2025 schedule at home against Notre Dame on August 31.
In additional rankings, Spafford sits at No. 124 overall nationally, No. 12 among wideouts, and No. 17 in California per 247Sports. He made waves at last summer’s ESPN Future 50 event by clocking a 4.35-second 40-yard dash to win the “fastest man” competition.
Scouting Report (247Sports – Greg Biggins, May 28):
Spafford is a dynamic receiver with traits that project well at the collegiate level and beyond. He excels in route running and can create separation with ease. Despite being slightly under 5-foot-11, he is physically strong, handles press coverage well, and is difficult to tackle one-on-one. He’s explosive off the snap, fast after the catch, and wins contested balls with sharp instincts and ball awareness. His speed and agility also make him a valuable asset on special teams. Overall, he’s a polished and electrifying playmaker with NFL potential.