CORAL GABLES – The accolades and honors are pouring in for Jonathan Garvin.
As one of Miami’s most highly regarded players on defense – and in the entire program – the Lake Worth alum has been mostly consistent in his quest to be the best at defensive end. In his sophomore season, Garvin (6-5, 256 pounds) racked up 60 tackles, 17 tackles for loss (fourth in ACC), 5.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries, and a touchdown in 13 starts.
For his efforts, the local standout has been named to the Walter Camp Player of the Year Watch List, the Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List, and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List. He’s one of eight Hurricanes to be considered for any kind of national award in the preseason.
In addition to these honors, Garvin was selected by his coaches and teammates as the ultimate “Iron Cane” workout warrior of the summer.
“It’s something he takes a lot of pride in,” Miami head coach Manny Diaz said.
Garvin seemed to be surprised about taking home the team’s top summer honor.
“I didn’t think I would win it,” he said of the ultimate “Iron Cane” award. “There’s a lot of strong people in college…I didn’t think I would be the one [to win it], but I put in the work. I won’t say I was the strongest in everything. But I was the most dominant, especially when it comes to performing at a high level. That’s where I finished at.”
Garvin’s meteoric rise to stardom has been closely chronicled by Max Marius, his former high school teammate at Lake Worth and best friend to this day.
Marius was there when Garvin received only one offer from NC State prior to his pivotal junior season at Lake Worth. He was also there (as a true friend) with the Miami star when he decided to transfer to Oxbridge Academy after his junior year.
Marius was there to welcome Garvin back to Lake Worth for a memorable senior season, which resulted in him finishing his high school career as the No. 1 overall player in Palm Beach County.
Marius is still there with Garvin, even though it’s basically in spirit now.
“Neo (Garvin’s nickname) worked for all the things he has achieved,” Marius said. “His progress is huge…What separates Neo from everybody is his progressive mindset. He’s never satisfied and always wants to get better at his craft. He knows who he is and will continue to be the best version of himself.”
NOTE: Garvin and the Miami Hurricanes have several more practices before their highly anticipated Aug. 24 season opener against the Florida Gators. It will be held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando (7 p.m. kickoff).
This game in particular will serve as a great opportunity for the ultimate Iron Cane to further showcase his talents.
