Miami’s first appearance in the College Football Playoff spotlights more than a championship pursuit. It also serves as a national audition for several Hurricanes with NFL futures, all competing against the sport’s best on its biggest stage.
For a program making its CFP debut, the moment carries added weight. Miami’s roster features a mix of physical defenders, experienced linemen and established skill players. While the Hurricanes may not have a single headlining star, they bring NFL-level talent at key positions, especially along the defensive front, in the secondary, at quarterback and in the backfield. The playoff stage provides a clear test of how that talent responds under pressure.
Here’s a look at the Miami players NFL teams will be watching closely during the Hurricanes’ playoff run.
Carson Beck, quarterback
Beck directs Miami’s offense with experience and composure. He operates efficiently from the pocket, shows touch on intermediate throws and displays a strong understanding of defensive structure. Beck keeps the offense on schedule and limits mistakes.
In the playoff, evaluators will focus on Beck’s decision-making against disguised coverages and his ability to deliver throws under pressure. The CFP offers him an opportunity to prove he can elevate his play against elite defenses and manage late-game situations.
Rueben Bain Jr., edge rusher
Bain stands as Miami’s most impactful defensive prospect and one of the most sought-after players in the draft class. He sits high on draft boards because he offers a complete edge profile rather than a single-trait projection. Bain combines power, leverage and relentless effort, consistently converting speed to strength and collapsing pockets even when tackles initially hold their ground.
What separates Bain from many pass rushers is his reliability on early downs. He sets the edge with authority, plays through contact and rarely leaves the field. That three-down value matters at the next level, where defenses demand edge players who can defend the run and rush the passer without substitution.
Bain’s impact extends beyond sack totals. He disrupts timing, forces quarterbacks off their spots and draws extra protection that opens opportunities for teammates. In the playoff, evaluators will study how he handles elite offensive tackles, double teams and late-game fatigue. Strong performances could cement his place among the premier defensive prospects in the class.
Francis Mauigoa, offensive tackle
Mauigoa anchors Miami’s offensive line and brings the size and strength NFL teams covet on the edge. He plays with a strong base, shows the athleticism to handle speed rushers and generates movement in the run game.
Against playoff-caliber defensive fronts, Mauigoa’s consistency in pass protection will be tested. Evaluators will watch how he handles pressure in obvious passing situations and whether his technique holds up deep into games.
Keionte Scott, defensive back
Scott adds versatility and toughness to Miami’s secondary. He can line up outside or in the slot and provides physical support in the run game. He plays with confidence and competes aggressively at the catch point.
In the CFP, Scott’s coverage instincts, tackling and discipline will be tested against elite receivers. His flexibility fits modern defensive schemes and enhances his draft appeal.
Akheem Mesidor, edge rusher
Mesidor provides athletic depth to Miami’s pass rush. He flashes burst off the edge and can stress offensive tackles in passing situations.
The playoff presents Mesidor with an opportunity to show consistency against top competition. Productive pressure and reliable run defense could raise his profile as an NFL rotational pass rusher.
CJ Daniels, wide receiver
Daniels brings size and physicality to Miami’s receiving corps. He can win contested catches and stretch defenses vertically, giving the offense another dimension.
In the playoff, scouts will track Daniels’ ability to separate against elite defensive backs and finish plays in traffic. High-impact moments could shape his draft outlook.
Mark Fletcher Jr., running back
Fletcher adds power and balance to Miami’s backfield. He runs with a low pad level, finishes through contact and shows patience when pressing the line of scrimmage.
In the CFP, evaluators will watch Fletcher’s vision, ball security and pass protection. NFL teams value running backs who handle physical workloads and contribute in multiple phases, and the playoff stage provides a clear test of those traits.
The bigger picture
Miami’s playoff debut provides its prospects with their most revealing evaluation environment. The speed, physicality and pressure mirror the professional game, making every snap meaningful.
For the Hurricanes, strong performances can push draft stock upward, while struggles will follow players into offseason evaluations. Either way, Miami enters the College Football Playoff with multiple NFL prospects aiming to turn high-stakes moments into lasting professional opportunity.
