Miami getting a physical back in Mark Fletcher
Miami added a key piece to its 2023 recruiting class on Sunday night as Mario Cristobal and the Hurricanes secured a commitment from Top247 running back Mark Fletcher.
Fletcher is a former Ohio State commit that was also considering Florida and had heard from the likes of both Tennessee and USC.
Anytime you can beat out an in-state rival for a blue-chip talent it’s, obviously, a big deal, but taking a look at the big picture, this is a much-needed addition for Miami, who wants to play a physical brand of football under the direction of Cristobal.
As a senior, Fletcher was the workhorse for a Plantation American Heritage program that played for a Sunshine State 2A state title. He averaged 8.6 yards per carry totaling 1,934 yards and 23 touchdowns on the ground. More impressively, he has eclipsed the century mark rushing in 10 different games.
That type of production is certainly notable, but it’s Fletcher’s run style that should have Miami fans excited about the future. To put it simply: Fletcher is the type of running back that’s going to get you three yards when you need two yards as he’s a battering ram of sorts that embraces contact.
“If you’re looking for a big back with the potential to provide immediate high-volume capability, Fletcher is your guy,” says 247Sports national analyst Gabe Brooks, who has studied the 2023 crop of backs as much as anyone. “He’ll arrive in college as a bellcow type who could also be used as a valuable change-of-pace runner in a running back room that possesses multiple styles. He’s gotten gradually more functionally athletic while maintaining his trademark size. Would not be surprised if he got some early looks as a short-yardage hammer to crack open the goal-line fortress.”
I agree with all that and believe that Fletcher’s overall physical demeanor pairs perfectly with Christopher Johnson, who is also committed to the Hurricanes.
Johnson is one of the fastest prospects in the country having captured gold medals in both the 100 and 200-meter dashes this past spring, but he’s the type of running back that’s not going to offer much value in-between the tackles or in pass protection. So, the fact that Cristobal and his staff have locked up a potential thunder and lightning duo has to have them smiling, especially with two of the nation’s top offensive tackles committed (Francis Mauigoa and Samson Okunlola) and veteran Alabama transfer Javion Cohen on the way.
247Sports Scouting Report
“A big, physically imposing running back that produced for four straight years at one of South Florida’s top NFL factories. Limited verified data available when it comes to testing and measurements, but is believed to be over 6-foot-1 and pushing 230 pounds. The type of ball carrier that loves contact and is difficult for defenders to get on the ground as he keeps his legs pumping and is always trying to fall forward. Efficient with his cuts and usually one that hits the whole with a full head of steam. Owns a bit of an up-right run style, but makes it work as he powers his way through arm tackles and likes to throw a stiff arm of his own in the open field. Wasn’t asked to catch a ton of passes throughout his prep career, but showed that he was more than capable of moving the chains via swing or screen passes. Also proved to be rather effective in pass protection as his size allowed him to square up with most edge players.
Top-end speed is a bit of a concern, but does his best to make up for it by consistently fighting for yardage in the trenches. Missed some time as a junior with a shoulder injury, but rebounded nicely as a senior racking up just under 2,000 rushing yards in 15 games. Should be viewed as a future multi-year contributor at the Power Five level based upon everything that we have seen. Could likely carve out a role as a workhorse on Saturdays, but might also thrive as a ground-and-pound option in a committee.”
