Xavier Lucas, a standout cornerback from American Heritage, was initially recruited by the Miami Hurricanes but chose to play for Wisconsin. After one year with the Badgers, Lucas decided to transfer due to his father’s serious illness, according to his lawyer, Darren Heitner. Although Miami seemed like the natural destination, Wisconsin failed to enter Lucas into the transfer portal within the 48-hour timeframe required by NCAA rules. This led to a prolonged dispute between Lucas and the university. Lucas expressed his frustration on social media, claiming that Wisconsin’s delay was hindering his ability to communicate with other schools.
On Friday, Lucas committed to Miami after resolving the issue, and Heitner confirmed the move. According to reports, Lucas had signed a revenue-sharing agreement with Wisconsin, but the rules that would allow for direct athlete compensation are not set to take effect until July 1, pending approval of a lawsuit settlement. The agreement binds Lucas to Wisconsin for two years and restricts other schools from using his name, image, and likeness.
Lucas has already withdrawn from Wisconsin and enrolled at Miami for the Fall 2025 semester, with plans to reclassify to the spring. The NCAA clarified that their rules do not prevent Lucas from transferring and competing immediately after unenrolling and enrolling at another institution. Lucas had an impressive high school career, being named a Sun Sentinel All-County selection with 46 tackles and four interceptions. As a freshman at Wisconsin, he tallied 12 tackles and an interception, earning solid grades from Pro Football Focus, including a 77.5 overall rating and a 75.2 coverage grade.
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