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Today I'm taking a look at the guys who will be most crucial to our success this year offensively. I'm also going to highlight those who I believe will take a significant step forward in their development. Again, this is in no particular order so don't read too much into that.
1. QB Darian Mensah 6'3" 205 lbs Junior
Mensah is a dynamic playmaker who operates with high conviction. While not a "run first" quarterback he is very mobile and excels at extending plays and throwing off platform or on the run. Had a 66.8% completion percentage at Duke and a 65.9% at Tulane showing elite accuracy even when throwing from unconventional body positions/off balance platforms. Hebis a natural gunslinger who consistently looks for explosive downfield shots rather than settling for checkdowns leading the nation in several passing categories. Despite his aggressive style he has shown remarkable discipline with interceptions, throwing only 6 in each of his first two seasons(27 games). Hevis also recognized for his advanced processing skills and his ability to lead game winning drives most notably Clemson 2025.
A significant concern with Mensah is his propensity to fumble as he has lost the ball 16 times in the last 2 seasons. 9 at Duke and 7 at Tulane. Analytics show that he struggles when holding the ball for more than 2.5 seconds, occasionally leading to unnecessary sacks or turnover worthy plays when he gets too loose with the football. While mobile, he still needs more consistency with his traditional pocket footwork and stepping up into the rush.
Playing under OC Shannon Dawson is expected to be a very positive pairing as Dawson's background in the Air Raid offense mirrors the aggressive vertical style Mensah thrived in at Duke. Dawson's scheme allows for the improvisational play seen with Cam Ward while maintaining the control of the run game seen with Carson Beck. Mensah has stated that they plan to mix the two styles to maximize his versatility. Unlike previous offenses that were more conservative, Dawson's intent to "throw the ball all over the place" aligns with Mensah's preference of searching for explosive plays.
Floor. He becomes a more aggressive version of Carson Beck effectively distributing the ball to Miami's playmaker. However the chaos of his fumbling issues and occasional recklessness with the football prevent Miami from beating elite opponents in the postseason. Mid to late round NFL draft pick.
Ceiling. If Mensah masters Dawson's system his ceiling is a Heisman caliber campaign and a Top 10 NFL draft pick. If Mensah effectively blends the gunslinger traits of Cam Ward with the processing speed of an elite pro style passer and cuts down turnover worthy plays while maintaining the vertical explosiveness that led the ACC in passing yards and touchdowns then Miami wins the ACC and is able to secure a "Final 4" spot in the playoffs.
Why the ceiling is attainable.
The transition from the pass heavy but often sacked environment at Duke to Miami's elite Offensive Line is the key. Playing behind a Cristobal/Mirabal coached unit should in theory reduce his pressure induced mistakes, allowing his natural processing, accuracy and big play ability to shine.
2. WR Malachi Toney 5'11" 185 lbs Soph
Tiney is a versatile chess piece playmaker who can dominate as a high volume slot receiver or as a downfield threat. His background as a high school QB gives him an elite understanding of spacing and defenses allowing him to act as a passer on trick plays.
Toney has elite hands as he finished 2025 with zero drops on over 90 targets earning him the highest mark among high volume FBS receivers. Described a technician in the slot, he uses exceptional agility and body control to create separation, particularly on option routes. Toney is highly evasive in the open field showing elite acceleration. He is known for turning short screens into explosive touchdowns. Toney is extremely versatile, contributing as a punt returner, a situational runner and even a passer.
Because of his size, hebis not a jump ball reciever and can occasionally be outmuscled by larger more physical cornerbacks. While highly explosive, he won't win every long distance foot race vs DBs with elite track speed.
Floor. All ACC High Volume Target. Even if opposing DCs double him more frequently, his floor is a 75 catch 900 yard season. His consistency and role in Dawson's offense ensure that he will remain the focal point of the offense.
Ceiling. Heisman Finalist and Biletnikoff winner. If he builds on his 109 catch freshman season, he could approach 1,500 yards and double digit touchdowns potentially earning a trip to New York.
3. RB Mark Fletcher 6'2" 225 lbs Senior
Fletcher is a downhill bruiser who consistently falls forward. He excels at keeping his legs moving forward through contact often requiring multiple defenders to bring him down. His size and leg drive make him a devastating weapon in the Red Zone/Goal Line and in must have short yardage 4th down situations. Fletcher shows efficient economical cuts and the lateral agility to make defenders miss in a phone booth thus avoiding the "plodder" tag often associated with big backs. He is an emerging and effective pass blocker who can square up with edge rushers and stonewall blitzers using his powerful frame. Has the discipline to let blocks develop before hitting the hole with burst. Fletcher is considered the heart and soul of the team and is considered the top team leader.
Fletcher is a long strider who has shown an effective 2nd gear in the open field yet his breakaway speed is considered merely adequate. Also his tall frame gives defenders a large target and can make it difficult for Fletcher to squeeze through tight creases at the line of scrimmage. He has had foot issues, specifically a Lisfranc that required surgery and extensive rehabilitation following his freshman year. While capable on swing and screen passes he must develop more nuance in his route running in order to be a true 3 down threat at the NFL level.
Floor. NFL short yardage specialist/Committee Back
Ceiling. NFL workhorse/Pro Bowler
If he improves his route running nuance and maintains his 2025 playoff explosiveness, he could project as a high volume bell cow similar to a more agile version of Derrick Henry.
Draft Projection. Early Day 2(2nd-3rd round) Scouts value his efficiency(5.9 YPC) and elite leadership skills but his lack of speed will keep him out of the 1st round.
4. WR Cooper Barkate 6'1" 200 lbs
Barkate is a highly productive graduate transfer who is described as being a smooth technical route runner who creates consistent separation with crisp breaks and a high football IQ. Despite not being a huge WR, Barkate has shown an outstanding catch radius and has been highly reliable in contested catch situations. Unlike many technically proficient possession receivers, he has shown the ability to turn short gains into explosive plays. He can effectively operate as both a Z receiver on the outside and as a "Big Slot" weapon, making him a match up nightmare for Nickel corners.
Barkate possesses an elite football IQ as a Harvard grad with a deep understanding of defensive leverage. Barkate has had back to back 1,000 yard seasons at both Harvard and Duke. He is also known for stepping up in big games and vs elite competition.
While explosive, Barkate lacks track star vertical speed and at 200 lbs he can be jammed by aggressive physical corners. He is also entering his 3rd system in 3 years having to quickly adapt to a new playbook however this is not expected to be an issue.
Barkate and Mensah were arguably the most explosive package deal in the 2026 transfer portal. At Duke, Barkate was Mensah's undisputed #1 target. In Shannon Dawson's offense at Miami, Barkate will share targets with Malachi Toney and others. While his total targets are likely to decrease compared to his time at Duke, the quality of those targets are likely to increase due to the fact that defenses cannot focus solely on him.
Floor at Miami. Highly productive WR2. Even if Toney is likely to remain the primary option, Barkate's chemistry with Mensah effectively sures that he will be a highly productive chain mover who excels on 3rd downs.
Ceiling at Miami. All ACC 1st team/Biletnikoff Finalist. If he and Mensah duplicate their connection in the context of Miami's more talented offense, Barkate could lead the ACC in receptions and push for a 1,200 yard season.
Floor at next level. Reliable Depth/Special Teams. His intelligence and refined route running give him a high probability of sticking on an NFL rooster as a 4th or 5th wideout.
Ceiling next level. Starting NFL Slot WR. His profile could mirror a player like Jakobi Meyers and a strong 2026 could vault him into Day 2(3rd round) consideration.
5. RB Girard Pringle 5'10" 190 Soph
Pringle enters his Sophomore year at Miami as the most explosive weapon in Miami's deep 2026 backfield where he I expected to play a pivotal role in what is perhaps the deepest RB room in the nation alongside Mark Fletcher, Marty Brown and Jordan Lyle. Pringle is a legitimate home run threat with verified 10.56 100m speed who can outrun angles from second level defenders. He excels as an outside zone runner with a one cut and go style that allows him to reach top speed almost instantly after hitting the hole. Despite his leaner frame he shows a surprising ability to run through arm tackles and stay upright using a low center of gravity. Mario Cristobal has praised his maturity noting his patience in letting blocks develop and his ball security.
Like most young backs he needs to refine his technique and physical strength in blitz pickup in order to become a consistent 3 down back. While Pringle showed flashes as a receiver, especially as a check down option he has never been heavily featuring the passing game either in high school or his freshman season. Pringle needs to continue to develop this aspect of his game in order to completely unlock his potential as a complete RB and an explosive playmaker.
Floor. Elite change of Pace RB. A high end rotational piece who touches the ball 8-12 times a game as the lightning to Fletcher/Brown's thunder.
Ceiling. All ACC/High end NFL prospect. If he can get his weight up to 195-200 lbs and proves himself as a receiver, he could mirror the profile of Jahmyr Gibbs or Devon Achane.
6. OL Samson Okunlola 6'6" 330 lbs RS Junior. Okunlola has made the transition from a highly touted high school player to a reliable and versatile contributer for Miami. He saw significant snaps at Left Guard during Miami's playoff run. Okunlola has a multi sport background in wrestling and track and field(Shot put/Discus). This gives him superior leverage and hand fighting skills as an offensive linemen. His early development was slowed down by an MCL tear in 2023 and a hand injury requiring surgery in late 2024 but he returned to play in all 16 games of 2025. Okunlola demonstrates nimble footwork and excellent lateral mobility allowing him to mirror speed rushers effectively. In the run game he is a physical finisher who thrives as a puller in space. He is known for consistently planting defenders into the turf as soon as he reaches the second level. Uses his wrestling background to stay low and win the leverage battle. Shows excellent knee bend and hip flexibility for a player his size. He is highly praised for his mental toughness and his ability to master both Tackle and Guard spots. This versatility increases his NFL value.
While naturally athletic, his pass set remains a work in progress as he can sometimes rely too much on his initial punch rather than consistent footwork. Scouts have noticed a need for improved ankle flexion to help him maintain a steady base versus elite bull rushers. Will occasionally get caught bending at the waist instead of the knees in pass protection which can lead to him being pushed back in the pocket.
Floor at next level. Reliable Multi Position Starter. Even if he never masters the Tackle position, the ability to play Guard at a high level provides a path to a long NFL career.
Ceiling at next level. If he refines his pass sets and stays healthy, his elite length and movement skills mirror the profile of a franchise cornerstone.
Floor the rest of Miami career. High end Multi Position Starter. At minimum, Okunlola has solidified himself as a Swiss Army Knife on Miami's line who can start at any of the 4 guard and tackle spots. His floor is a versatile veteran presence on an elite Miami offensive line providing the stabilizing force necessary for the Hurricane's continued playoff contention. Given his experience in 2025 and his high football IQ he is virtually guaranteed to be one of the top rated interior linemen in the conference.
Ceiling at Miami. Concensus All American and Joe Moore Award Leader. His ceiling is becoming the face of Miami's Offensive Line if he refines his pass blocking technique which by many accounts he has been, he could emerge as a Joe Moore Award- caliber leader. By demonstrating dominance at both Guard and potentially sliding back to Tackle, he could enter the 2027 NFL draft as a near unanimous first round selection.
7. OL Matt McCoy 6'6" 325 lbs RS Senior
McCoy a redshirt senior is a versatile and athletic cornerstone of the Miami offensive line. McCoy is a former TE and basketball player which is evident in his nimble footwork and ability to move in space. After redshirting in 2022 he became a key backup in 2023 before starting 12 games at LG in 2024 and sharing the position with Samson Okunlola in 2025 starting 15 of 16 games and rotating out to give Okunlola more experience. McCoy's best trait is his agility allowing him to excel on screens, power plays and reaching the second and third level of the defense. In 2025 McCoy allowed no sacks and 4 pressures improving from a 2024 campaign where he allowed 2 sacks and 11 pressures while playing through a torn labrum. McCoy has shown to be versatile playing both Guard and Tackle and even inline TE. He is known for his high motor and physicality.
McCoy could improve his hand placement and technique particularly in maintaining a low center of gravity during pass sets. While athletic, he struggled in 2024 against the "grown man strength" of elite bull rushers sometimes getting pushed back into the pocket. He was playing through a torn labrum which greatly affected his ability to play at full strength. However his 2025 season completely put those concerns to bed.
Floor. High end NFL backup/Spot Starter
Ceiling. Pro Bowl Guard. Scouts now see his elite mobility combined with his functional strength as a blueprint for a high level NFL starter in a zone blocking scheme.
8. RB CharMar Brown 5'11" 220 lbs Junior
Brown is a physical high motor running back for Miami who specializes as a downhill bruising tough yards running back. Brown is a hard nosed runner who runs behind his pads and consistently falls forward for extra yardage. He is particularly effective in short yardage and goal line situations. A former high school wrestler and track sprinter, Brown possesses elite lower body power and balance. In pass protection he shows rare consistency for a young back allowing zero pressures or sacks in limited pass blocking snaps. Brown is also extremely reliable with zero fumbles in 366 carries over 2 seasons with his lone fumble coming on a swing pass. Scouts compare his ability to navigate gaps and finish runs between the tackles to a poor man's Arian Foster or Alvin Kumara.
While Brown is explosive through the hole initially, his long speed is considered average for an elite prospect making him less of a homerun threat on runs over 50 yards. Brown is primarily used as a runner. While he has shown flashes in dump off or swing type passes, his usage in the passing game is limited.
Floor. A consistent high floor contributor who lacks the homerun speed needed to take over ad a workhorse.
Ceiling. All ACC goal line and short yardage specialist. At his peak, Brown becomes the definitive closer for Mario Cristobal's power run scheme. A high volume RB1B who handles 150+ carries.
NFL trajectory. A potential early to mid round draft pick due to his pro ready frame and pass protection skills.
9. C Ryan Rodriguez 6'2 300 lbs RS Senior
Rodriguez is a veteran interior offensive lineman who enters 2026 as the likely starter at Center. After years of development, he is characterized by his mean streak and technical reliability. He plays with a high motor and consistently finishes blocks. His strength is getting off the ball quickly and driving defenders into the second level in the running game. As a former 2 sport athlete he has exceptionally quick feet and the coordination to hit moving targets as a puller. Despite being recruited primarily as a Center, he has experience all over the line allowing him to serve as a high end plug and play depth piece.
Floor. Highly reliable rotational reserve.
At the minimum Rodriguez provided high floor veteran stability. Even without securing a starting spot he remains a crucial 6th man capable of playing all 3 interior positions without a drop off in communication or execution.
Ceiling. All ACC Center and NFL prospect.
His ceiling is a consistent high level starter. With continued health his athleticism and nastiness could make him one of the best interior linemen in the conference earning NFL draft consideration as a late round developmental center due to his elite movement skills.
10. WR Josh Moore 6'4" 205 lbs
Moore is a physically dominant X receiver with a prototypical build and a massive catch radius making him a matchup nightmare for smaller cornerbacks. He is a 50/50 ball specialist who uses his huge frame to box out defenders in the red zone while excelling at high pointing the football. Despite his size he moves with the fluidity of a smaller slot receiver showing the ability to drop his hips and execute tight hitch routes. Moore's size and vertical ability make him a primary target for QBs in scoring situations. While he is explosive off the line he lacks a true home run gear making it difficult for him to create separation against elite speed corners. Being a young receiver he still needs to work on the finer points of route running such as complex stem work and consistently catching the ball away from his body.
Floor. High end red zone specialist. His physical tools ensure his ability as a reliable chain mover and red zone weapon.
Ceiling. First Team All ACC and Top NFL prospect. If he continues developing his route running technique his ceiling is a 1,000 yard WR who leads the ACC in Touchdowns. His combination of size and technical fluidity has Scouts comparing his potential to big bodied NFL WRs.
11. RB Jordan Lyle 6' 205 lbs RS Soph
Lyle is an explosive, smooth operating running back. His best trait is his ability to bounce off of heavy contact and spin off of defenders to keep the play alive. Shows great acceleration as Lyle hits top speed quickly and is a constant threat to break away if he reaches the second level. Is known for his high ypc averages and demonstrates natural vision, elite lateral agility and an innate understanding of blocking angles to set up defenders.
While he is fast, Lyle is not a true blazer. His top speed is good but not elite. He suffered an injury vs Notre Dame the first game of 2025 which limited him to 108 yards on the season. He has historical lyrics worked in committees and there are questions about his ability to maintain a high level of efficiency over a 200+ carry workload.
Floor. Elite change of Pace rotational piece.
Ceiling. All ACC 3 down star and early round NFL pick.
12. WR Cam Vaughn 6'2" 190 lbs
13. TE Elija Lofton
14. WR Vandrevius Jacobs
15. OL Max Buchanan
16. WR Daylin Upshaw
Sorry I'm late getting this out. I will be editing the OP to fill in the details for 11-16 throughout the day today. I've been busy with other things and I wanted to get out what I had finished since Spring ball starts today. Thanks and Go Canes!
1. QB Darian Mensah 6'3" 205 lbs Junior
Mensah is a dynamic playmaker who operates with high conviction. While not a "run first" quarterback he is very mobile and excels at extending plays and throwing off platform or on the run. Had a 66.8% completion percentage at Duke and a 65.9% at Tulane showing elite accuracy even when throwing from unconventional body positions/off balance platforms. Hebis a natural gunslinger who consistently looks for explosive downfield shots rather than settling for checkdowns leading the nation in several passing categories. Despite his aggressive style he has shown remarkable discipline with interceptions, throwing only 6 in each of his first two seasons(27 games). Hevis also recognized for his advanced processing skills and his ability to lead game winning drives most notably Clemson 2025.
A significant concern with Mensah is his propensity to fumble as he has lost the ball 16 times in the last 2 seasons. 9 at Duke and 7 at Tulane. Analytics show that he struggles when holding the ball for more than 2.5 seconds, occasionally leading to unnecessary sacks or turnover worthy plays when he gets too loose with the football. While mobile, he still needs more consistency with his traditional pocket footwork and stepping up into the rush.
Playing under OC Shannon Dawson is expected to be a very positive pairing as Dawson's background in the Air Raid offense mirrors the aggressive vertical style Mensah thrived in at Duke. Dawson's scheme allows for the improvisational play seen with Cam Ward while maintaining the control of the run game seen with Carson Beck. Mensah has stated that they plan to mix the two styles to maximize his versatility. Unlike previous offenses that were more conservative, Dawson's intent to "throw the ball all over the place" aligns with Mensah's preference of searching for explosive plays.
Floor. He becomes a more aggressive version of Carson Beck effectively distributing the ball to Miami's playmaker. However the chaos of his fumbling issues and occasional recklessness with the football prevent Miami from beating elite opponents in the postseason. Mid to late round NFL draft pick.
Ceiling. If Mensah masters Dawson's system his ceiling is a Heisman caliber campaign and a Top 10 NFL draft pick. If Mensah effectively blends the gunslinger traits of Cam Ward with the processing speed of an elite pro style passer and cuts down turnover worthy plays while maintaining the vertical explosiveness that led the ACC in passing yards and touchdowns then Miami wins the ACC and is able to secure a "Final 4" spot in the playoffs.
Why the ceiling is attainable.
The transition from the pass heavy but often sacked environment at Duke to Miami's elite Offensive Line is the key. Playing behind a Cristobal/Mirabal coached unit should in theory reduce his pressure induced mistakes, allowing his natural processing, accuracy and big play ability to shine.
2. WR Malachi Toney 5'11" 185 lbs Soph
Tiney is a versatile chess piece playmaker who can dominate as a high volume slot receiver or as a downfield threat. His background as a high school QB gives him an elite understanding of spacing and defenses allowing him to act as a passer on trick plays.
Toney has elite hands as he finished 2025 with zero drops on over 90 targets earning him the highest mark among high volume FBS receivers. Described a technician in the slot, he uses exceptional agility and body control to create separation, particularly on option routes. Toney is highly evasive in the open field showing elite acceleration. He is known for turning short screens into explosive touchdowns. Toney is extremely versatile, contributing as a punt returner, a situational runner and even a passer.
Because of his size, hebis not a jump ball reciever and can occasionally be outmuscled by larger more physical cornerbacks. While highly explosive, he won't win every long distance foot race vs DBs with elite track speed.
Floor. All ACC High Volume Target. Even if opposing DCs double him more frequently, his floor is a 75 catch 900 yard season. His consistency and role in Dawson's offense ensure that he will remain the focal point of the offense.
Ceiling. Heisman Finalist and Biletnikoff winner. If he builds on his 109 catch freshman season, he could approach 1,500 yards and double digit touchdowns potentially earning a trip to New York.
3. RB Mark Fletcher 6'2" 225 lbs Senior
Fletcher is a downhill bruiser who consistently falls forward. He excels at keeping his legs moving forward through contact often requiring multiple defenders to bring him down. His size and leg drive make him a devastating weapon in the Red Zone/Goal Line and in must have short yardage 4th down situations. Fletcher shows efficient economical cuts and the lateral agility to make defenders miss in a phone booth thus avoiding the "plodder" tag often associated with big backs. He is an emerging and effective pass blocker who can square up with edge rushers and stonewall blitzers using his powerful frame. Has the discipline to let blocks develop before hitting the hole with burst. Fletcher is considered the heart and soul of the team and is considered the top team leader.
Fletcher is a long strider who has shown an effective 2nd gear in the open field yet his breakaway speed is considered merely adequate. Also his tall frame gives defenders a large target and can make it difficult for Fletcher to squeeze through tight creases at the line of scrimmage. He has had foot issues, specifically a Lisfranc that required surgery and extensive rehabilitation following his freshman year. While capable on swing and screen passes he must develop more nuance in his route running in order to be a true 3 down threat at the NFL level.
Floor. NFL short yardage specialist/Committee Back
Ceiling. NFL workhorse/Pro Bowler
If he improves his route running nuance and maintains his 2025 playoff explosiveness, he could project as a high volume bell cow similar to a more agile version of Derrick Henry.
Draft Projection. Early Day 2(2nd-3rd round) Scouts value his efficiency(5.9 YPC) and elite leadership skills but his lack of speed will keep him out of the 1st round.
4. WR Cooper Barkate 6'1" 200 lbs
Barkate is a highly productive graduate transfer who is described as being a smooth technical route runner who creates consistent separation with crisp breaks and a high football IQ. Despite not being a huge WR, Barkate has shown an outstanding catch radius and has been highly reliable in contested catch situations. Unlike many technically proficient possession receivers, he has shown the ability to turn short gains into explosive plays. He can effectively operate as both a Z receiver on the outside and as a "Big Slot" weapon, making him a match up nightmare for Nickel corners.
Barkate possesses an elite football IQ as a Harvard grad with a deep understanding of defensive leverage. Barkate has had back to back 1,000 yard seasons at both Harvard and Duke. He is also known for stepping up in big games and vs elite competition.
While explosive, Barkate lacks track star vertical speed and at 200 lbs he can be jammed by aggressive physical corners. He is also entering his 3rd system in 3 years having to quickly adapt to a new playbook however this is not expected to be an issue.
Barkate and Mensah were arguably the most explosive package deal in the 2026 transfer portal. At Duke, Barkate was Mensah's undisputed #1 target. In Shannon Dawson's offense at Miami, Barkate will share targets with Malachi Toney and others. While his total targets are likely to decrease compared to his time at Duke, the quality of those targets are likely to increase due to the fact that defenses cannot focus solely on him.
Floor at Miami. Highly productive WR2. Even if Toney is likely to remain the primary option, Barkate's chemistry with Mensah effectively sures that he will be a highly productive chain mover who excels on 3rd downs.
Ceiling at Miami. All ACC 1st team/Biletnikoff Finalist. If he and Mensah duplicate their connection in the context of Miami's more talented offense, Barkate could lead the ACC in receptions and push for a 1,200 yard season.
Floor at next level. Reliable Depth/Special Teams. His intelligence and refined route running give him a high probability of sticking on an NFL rooster as a 4th or 5th wideout.
Ceiling next level. Starting NFL Slot WR. His profile could mirror a player like Jakobi Meyers and a strong 2026 could vault him into Day 2(3rd round) consideration.
5. RB Girard Pringle 5'10" 190 Soph
Pringle enters his Sophomore year at Miami as the most explosive weapon in Miami's deep 2026 backfield where he I expected to play a pivotal role in what is perhaps the deepest RB room in the nation alongside Mark Fletcher, Marty Brown and Jordan Lyle. Pringle is a legitimate home run threat with verified 10.56 100m speed who can outrun angles from second level defenders. He excels as an outside zone runner with a one cut and go style that allows him to reach top speed almost instantly after hitting the hole. Despite his leaner frame he shows a surprising ability to run through arm tackles and stay upright using a low center of gravity. Mario Cristobal has praised his maturity noting his patience in letting blocks develop and his ball security.
Like most young backs he needs to refine his technique and physical strength in blitz pickup in order to become a consistent 3 down back. While Pringle showed flashes as a receiver, especially as a check down option he has never been heavily featuring the passing game either in high school or his freshman season. Pringle needs to continue to develop this aspect of his game in order to completely unlock his potential as a complete RB and an explosive playmaker.
Floor. Elite change of Pace RB. A high end rotational piece who touches the ball 8-12 times a game as the lightning to Fletcher/Brown's thunder.
Ceiling. All ACC/High end NFL prospect. If he can get his weight up to 195-200 lbs and proves himself as a receiver, he could mirror the profile of Jahmyr Gibbs or Devon Achane.
6. OL Samson Okunlola 6'6" 330 lbs RS Junior. Okunlola has made the transition from a highly touted high school player to a reliable and versatile contributer for Miami. He saw significant snaps at Left Guard during Miami's playoff run. Okunlola has a multi sport background in wrestling and track and field(Shot put/Discus). This gives him superior leverage and hand fighting skills as an offensive linemen. His early development was slowed down by an MCL tear in 2023 and a hand injury requiring surgery in late 2024 but he returned to play in all 16 games of 2025. Okunlola demonstrates nimble footwork and excellent lateral mobility allowing him to mirror speed rushers effectively. In the run game he is a physical finisher who thrives as a puller in space. He is known for consistently planting defenders into the turf as soon as he reaches the second level. Uses his wrestling background to stay low and win the leverage battle. Shows excellent knee bend and hip flexibility for a player his size. He is highly praised for his mental toughness and his ability to master both Tackle and Guard spots. This versatility increases his NFL value.
While naturally athletic, his pass set remains a work in progress as he can sometimes rely too much on his initial punch rather than consistent footwork. Scouts have noticed a need for improved ankle flexion to help him maintain a steady base versus elite bull rushers. Will occasionally get caught bending at the waist instead of the knees in pass protection which can lead to him being pushed back in the pocket.
Floor at next level. Reliable Multi Position Starter. Even if he never masters the Tackle position, the ability to play Guard at a high level provides a path to a long NFL career.
Ceiling at next level. If he refines his pass sets and stays healthy, his elite length and movement skills mirror the profile of a franchise cornerstone.
Floor the rest of Miami career. High end Multi Position Starter. At minimum, Okunlola has solidified himself as a Swiss Army Knife on Miami's line who can start at any of the 4 guard and tackle spots. His floor is a versatile veteran presence on an elite Miami offensive line providing the stabilizing force necessary for the Hurricane's continued playoff contention. Given his experience in 2025 and his high football IQ he is virtually guaranteed to be one of the top rated interior linemen in the conference.
Ceiling at Miami. Concensus All American and Joe Moore Award Leader. His ceiling is becoming the face of Miami's Offensive Line if he refines his pass blocking technique which by many accounts he has been, he could emerge as a Joe Moore Award- caliber leader. By demonstrating dominance at both Guard and potentially sliding back to Tackle, he could enter the 2027 NFL draft as a near unanimous first round selection.
7. OL Matt McCoy 6'6" 325 lbs RS Senior
McCoy a redshirt senior is a versatile and athletic cornerstone of the Miami offensive line. McCoy is a former TE and basketball player which is evident in his nimble footwork and ability to move in space. After redshirting in 2022 he became a key backup in 2023 before starting 12 games at LG in 2024 and sharing the position with Samson Okunlola in 2025 starting 15 of 16 games and rotating out to give Okunlola more experience. McCoy's best trait is his agility allowing him to excel on screens, power plays and reaching the second and third level of the defense. In 2025 McCoy allowed no sacks and 4 pressures improving from a 2024 campaign where he allowed 2 sacks and 11 pressures while playing through a torn labrum. McCoy has shown to be versatile playing both Guard and Tackle and even inline TE. He is known for his high motor and physicality.
McCoy could improve his hand placement and technique particularly in maintaining a low center of gravity during pass sets. While athletic, he struggled in 2024 against the "grown man strength" of elite bull rushers sometimes getting pushed back into the pocket. He was playing through a torn labrum which greatly affected his ability to play at full strength. However his 2025 season completely put those concerns to bed.
Floor. High end NFL backup/Spot Starter
Ceiling. Pro Bowl Guard. Scouts now see his elite mobility combined with his functional strength as a blueprint for a high level NFL starter in a zone blocking scheme.
8. RB CharMar Brown 5'11" 220 lbs Junior
Brown is a physical high motor running back for Miami who specializes as a downhill bruising tough yards running back. Brown is a hard nosed runner who runs behind his pads and consistently falls forward for extra yardage. He is particularly effective in short yardage and goal line situations. A former high school wrestler and track sprinter, Brown possesses elite lower body power and balance. In pass protection he shows rare consistency for a young back allowing zero pressures or sacks in limited pass blocking snaps. Brown is also extremely reliable with zero fumbles in 366 carries over 2 seasons with his lone fumble coming on a swing pass. Scouts compare his ability to navigate gaps and finish runs between the tackles to a poor man's Arian Foster or Alvin Kumara.
While Brown is explosive through the hole initially, his long speed is considered average for an elite prospect making him less of a homerun threat on runs over 50 yards. Brown is primarily used as a runner. While he has shown flashes in dump off or swing type passes, his usage in the passing game is limited.
Floor. A consistent high floor contributor who lacks the homerun speed needed to take over ad a workhorse.
Ceiling. All ACC goal line and short yardage specialist. At his peak, Brown becomes the definitive closer for Mario Cristobal's power run scheme. A high volume RB1B who handles 150+ carries.
NFL trajectory. A potential early to mid round draft pick due to his pro ready frame and pass protection skills.
9. C Ryan Rodriguez 6'2 300 lbs RS Senior
Rodriguez is a veteran interior offensive lineman who enters 2026 as the likely starter at Center. After years of development, he is characterized by his mean streak and technical reliability. He plays with a high motor and consistently finishes blocks. His strength is getting off the ball quickly and driving defenders into the second level in the running game. As a former 2 sport athlete he has exceptionally quick feet and the coordination to hit moving targets as a puller. Despite being recruited primarily as a Center, he has experience all over the line allowing him to serve as a high end plug and play depth piece.
Floor. Highly reliable rotational reserve.
At the minimum Rodriguez provided high floor veteran stability. Even without securing a starting spot he remains a crucial 6th man capable of playing all 3 interior positions without a drop off in communication or execution.
Ceiling. All ACC Center and NFL prospect.
His ceiling is a consistent high level starter. With continued health his athleticism and nastiness could make him one of the best interior linemen in the conference earning NFL draft consideration as a late round developmental center due to his elite movement skills.
10. WR Josh Moore 6'4" 205 lbs
Moore is a physically dominant X receiver with a prototypical build and a massive catch radius making him a matchup nightmare for smaller cornerbacks. He is a 50/50 ball specialist who uses his huge frame to box out defenders in the red zone while excelling at high pointing the football. Despite his size he moves with the fluidity of a smaller slot receiver showing the ability to drop his hips and execute tight hitch routes. Moore's size and vertical ability make him a primary target for QBs in scoring situations. While he is explosive off the line he lacks a true home run gear making it difficult for him to create separation against elite speed corners. Being a young receiver he still needs to work on the finer points of route running such as complex stem work and consistently catching the ball away from his body.
Floor. High end red zone specialist. His physical tools ensure his ability as a reliable chain mover and red zone weapon.
Ceiling. First Team All ACC and Top NFL prospect. If he continues developing his route running technique his ceiling is a 1,000 yard WR who leads the ACC in Touchdowns. His combination of size and technical fluidity has Scouts comparing his potential to big bodied NFL WRs.
11. RB Jordan Lyle 6' 205 lbs RS Soph
Lyle is an explosive, smooth operating running back. His best trait is his ability to bounce off of heavy contact and spin off of defenders to keep the play alive. Shows great acceleration as Lyle hits top speed quickly and is a constant threat to break away if he reaches the second level. Is known for his high ypc averages and demonstrates natural vision, elite lateral agility and an innate understanding of blocking angles to set up defenders.
While he is fast, Lyle is not a true blazer. His top speed is good but not elite. He suffered an injury vs Notre Dame the first game of 2025 which limited him to 108 yards on the season. He has historical lyrics worked in committees and there are questions about his ability to maintain a high level of efficiency over a 200+ carry workload.
Floor. Elite change of Pace rotational piece.
Ceiling. All ACC 3 down star and early round NFL pick.
12. WR Cam Vaughn 6'2" 190 lbs
13. TE Elija Lofton
14. WR Vandrevius Jacobs
15. OL Max Buchanan
16. WR Daylin Upshaw
Sorry I'm late getting this out. I will be editing the OP to fill in the details for 11-16 throughout the day today. I've been busy with other things and I wanted to get out what I had finished since Spring ball starts today. Thanks and Go Canes!
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