Up until the SMU loss last Saturday, Miami remained optimistic about their postseason aspirations. However, with hopes dwindling, expectations are now tempered and Miami is approaching the point of the season where the focus shifts to who will be featured on the 2026 roster (and must be kept out of the transfer portal) and who can solidify or improve their NFL Draft stock down the stretch.
For example, EDGE, **Reuben Bain Jr.**, and OL, **Francis Mauigoa**, could set themselves up as top ten draft picks as they prepare for the pre-draft process. On the flip side, with some Canes injured, underclassmen have an opportunity to build some momentum going into the offseason and provide some confidence for returners to next year’s roster.
Below are some players that should be exciting to watch for one reason or another:
WR **Malachi Toney**: Toney has been a bright spot all season as the number one freshman in the entire nation. He is absolutely electric every time he touches the ball and should keep Canes’ fans excited down the stretch - and for the next two years.
WRs **Joshisa “JoJo” Trader** and **Joshua Moore**: With CJ Daniels battling an injury over the last couple weeks, JoJo had his breakthrough game last week against SMU. True freshman and Broward native, Moore, also has a chance to get more reps. The WR trio of Toney, Trader, and Moore could be a lethal group in 2026.
RBs **CharMar Brown** and **Jordan Lyle**: Mark Fletcher has been a pleasant sight to see but has been ruled out against Syracuse although it’s unclear how long he’ll be out. If he’s able to return, he will be the primary RB and the player to watch in the backfield. However, if not, Brown, Lyle, and true freshman, **Girard Pringle Jr.**, will be featured for Miami.
TE **Elija Lofton**: TEU continues to look to be in good hands with Lofton and true freshman, **Luka Gilbert**
OL **Markel Bell** and **Samson Okunlola**: A bright spot for the Canes has been their offensive line. Three big reasons for that are (1) they have stayed healthy; (2) players stepping it up; and (3) situational depth. While Mauigoa has been the star of the line, 6’9”, 340lb Bell has been an absolute mauler in the other tackle slot and, as such, has been rising up draft boards.
Okunlola, the “Pancake Honcho”, was in the same recruiting class as Mauigoa as the other five star offensive lineman, and has been integrated into the offensive line depth as a co-starter. With Bell and Mauigoa likely headed toward the draft, Okunlola has a chance to be the guy on the line next year.
DL **Akheem Mesidor**: The defensive side of the trenches has also been fun to watch this year. One reason for that is Mesidor who could increase his draft stock as well.
DBs **Keionte Scott** and **Jakobe Thomas**: Scott and Thomas are getting recognized more and more by draft analysts and for good reason. #0 is all over the place and is a Thorpe Semifinalist. Honestly, Thomas should be too. Regardless, with good finishes to this season, they both will likely be top prospects going into the draft as potential early round picks.
DL **Justin Scott**, **Marquise Lightfoot**, and **Armondo Blount**: Similar to Mesidor, this trio of sophomores could get more chances to prove themselves in the final five games as Ahmad Moten is battling injury and its possible
CBs **Bryce Fitzgerald** and **Xavier Lucas**: With OJ Freqerique dealing with an injury, true freshman, Fitzgerald, should continue his ballhawking prowess while Lucas has ignored the offseason noise and has eligibility remaining.
LB **Kellen Wiley Jr.**: Wesley Bissainthe is questionable against Syracuse which could open the door for true freshman, Wiley, who has made the most of the snaps he has played. The four-star has a ton of upside.
It is pretty evident Miami has a lot of talent either eligible for the draft or set to return next year. Finishing strong this fall will be important. But possibly more important will be retaining the talent over the offseason. Who are you looking forward to seeing down the stretch?