Hurricanes Reload Backfield with Veteran Talent

New running backs coach aims to keep deep roster of returning stars ready to lead offense.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:57pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting overlapping planes of football players in motion, rendered in the Hurricanes' signature orange, green, and white colors.The Hurricanes' veteran backfield looks to power the team's offense with a dynamic, multi-faceted rushing attack.Today in Miami

The Miami Hurricanes football team is bringing back its entire stable of running backs for the upcoming season, led by senior standout Mark Fletcher Jr. The Hurricanes' new running backs coach has the task of keeping this deep and experienced group of players prepared and in top form to power the team's offense.

Why it matters

The Hurricanes' running game was a key strength that fueled their run to the national championship game last season. Retaining this talented backfield gives the team a strong foundation to build on as they aim to make another deep playoff push.

The details

The Hurricanes' running back room is stacked with veteran talent, including senior Mark Fletcher Jr., who rushed for over 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns last year. Joining Fletcher are juniors Jaylan Knighton and Don Chaney Jr., who combined for over 1,000 yards and 10 scores. The new running backs coach will be tasked with keeping this experienced group sharp and ready to lead the Hurricanes' offense.

  • The Hurricanes are coming off a run to the national championship game in the 2025 season.

The players

Mark Fletcher Jr.

A senior running back who rushed for over 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns last season, leading the Hurricanes' backfield.

Jaylan Knighton

A junior running back who combined with Fletcher and Chaney to give the Hurricanes a deep and talented backfield.

Don Chaney Jr.

A junior running back who combined with Fletcher and Knighton to give the Hurricanes a deep and talented backfield.

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What they’re saying

“We have a really special group of running backs that can do it all. My job is to make sure they're prepared and ready to lead our offense to another great season.”

— New Hurricanes Running Backs Coach

What’s next

The Hurricanes will open spring practice in a few weeks, giving the new running backs coach a chance to evaluate the group and begin implementing the team's offensive plans for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Hurricanes' deep and experienced backfield gives them a strong foundation to build on as they aim to build on last season's success and make another run at the national championship.