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Miami Hurricanes Aim to Flip 5-Star OT Mark Matthews from Texas A&M
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- Miami Hurricanes Aim to Flip 5-Star OT Mark Matthews from Texas A&M
The Miami Hurricanes lost out on the initial commitment from offensive tackle Mark Matthews. The 6-foot-5, 285-pound pass protector is a five-star recruit, the No. 1 offensive tackle and the No. 6 player in the nation, according to Rivals Industry Rankings .
He committed to the Texas A&M Aggies on May 15, over other finalists such as the Hurricanes, LSU Tigers and Georgia Bulldogs . He also had offers from the Florida Gators , Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
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Despite his commitment to the Aggies, Mario Cristobal and his staff are pushing for a flip. On Friday, Rivals' Steve Wiltfong reported that Miami will continue to stay in contact with Matthews.
Miami Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal.Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
"Perhaps Miami's most coveted target remaining is No. 1 offensive tackle and No. 6 player overall in five-star Mark Matthews," Wiltfong wrote. "A Texas A&M pledge, the Hurricanes will maintain steady contact with the prized South Florida recruit and they'll aim to make the Aggies work the rest of the 2027 cycle."
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While NIL may not be the biggest factor for the pass protector, it's become a major aspect of high school recruiting. Rivals' Pete Nakos previously revealed that Matthews is expected to earn a first-year deal "around the $1 million mark."
It's a hefty price tag, but something the Hurricanes could afford. Miami reportedly spent in the $30 million range for their 2025 roster, which made a national championship appearance.
Keeping the pressure on Texas A&M is key to putting a flip in motion. If the Hurricanes can pull it off, Matthews would be a major addition to their 2027 cycle. They rank first in the ACC and fourth in the nation with 15 commitments.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
