Michael Pinckney was part of the three-man corps of linebackers for the Miami Hurricanes who started together as freshmen through their junior seasons from 2016-18. Pinckney, Shaq Quarterman and Zach McCloud would have started all four seasons together before McCloud chose to redshirt in 2019.
In four seasons with the Miami Hurricanes Pinckney recorded 267 tackles, 42 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks, three interceptions and eight pass breakups. After an outstanding performance in the East-West Shrine game, Pinckney required surgery to repair a torn labrum and sports hernia. The injury likely hindered his NFL Draft stock.