Miami dismisses Jermaine Grace, Al-Quadin Muhammad for NCAA violations

Miami has dismissed two of its best defensive players from the program.

The school announced Saturday that both defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad and linebacker Jermaine Grace “have been permanently dismissed for violating NCAA rules.”

Grace, a senior, led the Hurricanes in tackles (79) in 2015 while Muhammad, a redshirt junior, led the team in both tackles for loss (8.5) and sacks (5). Both were expected to start for the Hurricanes in 2016 and be among the top players on new defensive coordinator Manny Diaz’s unit.

The two were being investigated by the school for allegedly receiving extra benefits from a luxury car rental agency. In a release, the school said it will continue to provide financial aid for the two players “through graduation.”

Miami is already on NCAA probation through October following from the scandal involving former booster Nevin Shapiro. The school said it “will not be subject to sanctions” stemming from Muhammad and Grace’s violations.

“The decision was made in consultation with outside counsel and after discussions with the NCAA enforcement staff,” the school said in a statement. “As no staff members or boosters were involved in the violations, the program will not be subject to sanctions and, at this time, the university deems this matter closed.”

The Miami Herald reported that Miami players may have used cars from South Beach Exotic Rentals “in exchange for future promises.” Linebacker Juwon Young was previously removed from the roster as a result of the investigation. Young, a junior, reportedly was not honest with school officials. He had 57 tackles and an interception in 2015.

Stacy Coley, one of the team’s top receivers, was also reportedly being investigated by the school. There is no word whether he will be subject to any discipline. Coley had 47 catches for 689 yards and four touchdowns last year.

	Matt Porter @mattyports
Stacy Coley has not been cleared yet, I'm told. Does not mean he will also be dismissed, just that his status is unclear 10:41 AM - 27 Aug 2016

Miami is entering its first season under Mark Richt, who returned to his alma mater following his dismissal from Georgia after 15 seasons. Richt replaces Al Golden, who was fired during the 2015 season – his fifth with the program. Overall, Golden finished with a 32-25 (17-18 ACC) with the Hurricanes.

Miami opens its season against Florida A&M on Sept. 3.