MIAMI GARDENS, FL - OCTOBER 21: Eric Dungey #2 of the Syracuse Orange stiff arms RJ McIntosh #80 of the Miami Hurricanes during a game at Sun Life Stadium on October 21, 2017 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Miami loses second defensive starter in span of just a few hours

This is just brutal for these guys.

While it will add some extra prestige to the new era of the program, the Miami Hurricanes lost two huge defensive talents in the matter of hours on Monday.

Kendrick Norton was first. Early on Monday, the defensive tackle took to Instagram to announce his decision.

Norton wrote:

After a lot of thought, prayer, talking to my family and coaches, I've decided to make myself available for the 2018 draft. This decision wasn't an easy one, as I love being a hurricane, but I feel I'm ready for the next step in realizing my dreams of being an nfl football player. My time at this school, the experiences with my teammates, Coach Richt, Coach Diaz, and of course my guy Coach Kool as well as the support of the amazing miami fans everywhere, Sometimes the best decision is not the most popular decision But I Will carry these memories with me forever. Thank you too everyone for the support in my decision. I will always be a Miami Hurricane. GO CANES!
Ps. And shout out to Peter for jumping out on the limb and guessing.

Fellow starting defensive tackle RJ McIntosh, oddly enough, used the same platform to announce his intentions to turn pro only a few hours later.

His Instagram is set to private. You're just going to have to trust us that it happened (or click on this link).

McIntosh tied for the team lead in tackles for loss with 12.5 this season.