The Miami football program signed the seventh-best 2023 class according to the 247 Sports Composite rankings. Several of those freshmen are expected to have an impact for Miami in 2023. Running back Mark Fletcher and wide receiver Nathaniel Joseph lead the offensive skill position freshmen expected to have an impact in 2023.
Fletcher and offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa were named as “freshmen primed to make an impact in 2023” on the 247 Sports Football Recruiting podcast. Joseph, WR Robby Washington and defensive lineman Rueben Bain were named honorable mention among 2023 ACC impact freshmen.
Quarterback Emory Williams has been pushing sophomore Jacurri Brown for second-team snaps behind Tyler Van Dyke throughout the spring and in training camp this month. Brown is more athletic, gained valuable experience in 2022 and has reportedly processed reads quicker than Williams in training camp.
Williams provides the Miami football program with a far more accurate passer. Brown could be included by offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson in special packages. The expectations for Williams this fall will depend on multiple factors. If Van Dyke stays healthy and Brown can be productive, Williams is likely to redshirt.
Fletcher has been trending toward being the short-yardage RB for Miami this season. In the scrimmage last Saturday, Fletcher scored two red zone touchdowns. At 6’0.5 and 226 pounds, Fletcher provides Miami with needed power. Chris Johnson is a speedy RB that could be utilized as a kick returner or redshirt.
Joseph is an explosive slot receiver that will challenge Xavier Restrepo and Breshard Smith for snaps. Joseph had a long TD reception in the spring game. Miami could potentially use Joseph as a kick returner. The potential Joseph has shown throughout the spring and in training camp projects him to be a part of the offense in 2023.
Washington brings versatility for Miami to play outside or in the slot. Entering the 2023 season Washington is intriguing, but projects as a third-team WR. At 5’11 and 170 pounds, Washington provides more speed than size at WR. Washington could also be utilized as a returner.
Miami signed tight ends Jackson Carver and Riley Williams in the 2023 class. Carver did not start playing football until his senior year of high school. With Miami deep at TE, Carver is a 2023 redshirt candidate. Williams was impressive in the Spring Game and should push Elijah Arroyo and Jaleel Skinner for snaps.