Miami Hurricanes senior defensive tackle Jonathan Ford will use the extra year of eligibility being granted to college football players and return to UM for the 2021 season, he announced on Wednesday.

Ford continued the “Run it Back” theme with his social media post, like other Hurricanes to make similar announcements, such as quarterback D’Eriq King, running back Cam’Ron Harris, receiver Michael Harley and safety Bubba Bolden.

“Being at The U has been a blessing, especially with all of the relationships I have built,” said Ford, a Dillard alum, in a statement. “This school is special to me and I will forever be thankful to the people that gave me the opportunity to attend this prestigious university. We are on a road of rebuilding and I would love to be a part of that.”

Ford had 19 tackles, 1 1/2 for loss, and a forced fumble in 2020. He momentarily lost his starter status in early November to redshirt freshman Jared Harrison-Hunte, but when Harrison-Hunte became unavailable the following week at Virginia Tech, Ford reclaimed his starting post and had a career-high six tackles against the Hokies.

The Hurricanes are also expected to return redshirt sophomore Jordan Miller, redshirt freshmen Jalar Holley and Jason Blissett and true freshmen Quentin Williams and Elijah Roberts at defensive tackle. Blissett, Williams and Roberts could also play end.

In the Early Signing Period, Miami also added five-star recruit Leonard Taylor from Miami Palmetto and three-star prospect Allan Haye from Chaminade-Madonna.