UM running backs coach Matt Merritt leaves for NFL position
University of Miami running backs coach Matt Merritt has left for an NFL position, creating a coaching vacancy for the Hurricanes during recruiting season.
The departure marks another coaching staff change for the Hurricanes, who have seen several assistants move on to professional opportunities in recent years. Merritt’s exit comes during a crucial recruiting period for Miami.
Merritt joined the Hurricanes coaching staff under head coach Mario Cristobal and worked with a running back corps that showed improvement throughout the season. His coaching helped develop the ground game that became a key component of Miami’s offensive strategy.
The timing of Merritt’s departure creates an immediate need for Cristobal to find a replacement ahead of spring practice. Running backs coaches play a vital role not only in developing talent but also in recruiting, particularly in South Florida where elite prep talent is abundant.
Miami’s running game showed marked improvement under Merritt’s guidance, with several backs contributing to the team’s offensive production. His departure to the NFL reflects the quality of coaching talent Cristobal has assembled in Coral Gables.
The Hurricanes will need to move quickly to fill the position, as recruiting efforts for the 2025 class continue and spring practice approaches. South Florida high schools produce some of the nation’s top running back prospects, making the position crucial for maintaining Miami’s recruiting pipeline.
Cristobal has not yet announced a replacement for Merritt or commented publicly on the departure. The head coach has emphasized the importance of retaining quality assistants while also understanding the appeal of NFL opportunities for ambitious coaches.
This marks the latest in a series of coaching moves across college football as assistants seek advancement opportunities at the professional level. For Miami, maintaining continuity in coaching staff remains important as the program works to establish itself as a consistent contender in the ACC.
The search for Merritt’s replacement will likely focus on coaches with strong recruiting ties to South Florida and experience developing college running backs.