Miami cornerback Tyrique Stevenson will be back in 2022.

Stevenson’s return is a big deal for Mario Cristobal’s squad, which will be trying to improve its defense significantly in 2022. Stevenson was arguably Miami’s best defensive back last season.

Here’s his announcement:

“I’m very much excited to come back and be a part of a program that’s moving in a new direction and build a bond with coach Cristobal,” Stevenson said in the video. “Just to be from Miami and be a part of this new tradition that that’s starting, this new culture that we’re building here, is a great feeling.”

Stevenson finished the season with 43 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1 interception and 4 pass deflections. He arrived at Miami after transferring from Georgia after the 2020 season.

Fellow cornerbacks Marcus Clarke and Te’Cory Couch are also expected back in 2022. However, it’s possible Miami could look for an upgrade alongside Stevenson next season. The Hurricanes’ secondary gave up 250.6 passing yards per game last season, which ranked No. 11 in the ACC.

Miami starting safety Bubba Bolden has already decided to move on and enter the 2022 NFL Draft.

Miami already has two commitments from cornerbacks in the class of 2022 — 4-star Khamauri Rogers and 3-star Jaden Harris. Both players have already officially signed with the Hurricanes.