Mizzou JACK Damon Wilson II (8) runs to tackle Arkansas quarterback KJ Jackson (7) (copy)

Mizzou’s Damon Wilson II (8) puts pressure on Arkansas quarterback KJ Jackson (7) during the first half Nov. 29 at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark. Wilson left Mizzou with another gap to fill on defense when he transferred to Miami on Thursday.

Former Missouri edge rusher Damon Wilson II announced his commitment to the Miami Hurricanes on Thursday.

Wilson transferred to Mizzou from Georgia ahead of the 2025 season and quickly emerged as one of the SEC’s most productive pass rushers. In 13 games, he totaled 23 tackles, 9½ tackles for loss and a team-high nine sacks while generating 54 quarterback pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.

The Venice, Florida, product spent two seasons at Georgia before breaking out in Missouri’s defense last season. He will return to the Sunshine State for his final season of eligibility after also considering LSU and Texas Tech.

Wilson’s departure leaves Missouri without both of its starting edge rushers from a season ago, as Zion Young is expected to be selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Tigers also lost reserve defensive ends Nate Johnson and Javion Hilson to the portal this offseason, part of a broader defensive transition that will see Missouri replace every starter from its 2025 unit.

Missouri has moved quickly to address the edge position, adding Louisville freshman CJ May along with transfers Jaden Jones and Cavan Tuley before the deadline for new portal entries. Holdovers Darris Smith and Langden Kitchen are also expected to factor into the rotation as Missouri reshapes its defensive front heading into 2026.

Originally published on columbiamissourian.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.

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