August 3, 2026
5-Star OL Mark Matthews' Texas A&M Pledge Faces Miami Pressure
On3's Steve Wiltfong believes Miami has a legitimate shot at flipping the five-star tackle despite his repeated pledges of loyalty to the Aggies.
Five-star offensive tackle Mark Matthews, the headliner of Texas A&M's 2027 recruiting class, finds his commitment under scrutiny as the Miami Hurricanes continue an aggressive pursuit of the blue-chip prospect. Matthews chose Texas A&M over Miami on May 15, but analysts — including On3's Steve Wiltfong — have placed him firmly on flip watch entering the fall evaluation period.
Matthews has publicly maintained his allegiance to the Aggies on multiple occasions, describing himself as 'all in' with coach Mike Elko's program. His confidence in College Station was bolstered after Texas A&M made the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history last season. Still, Wiltfong notes that Matthews accepted a smaller NIL deal from the Aggies than what Miami had on the table, a gap that keeps the Hurricanes in the conversation.
The Aggies quietly built a great relationship with Matthews and his family. Got him to campus several times. Have built a program he believes he can thrive in and their offensive line coach Adam Cushing has a great reputation as well.
— On3's Steve Wiltfong
Coaching Staff Relationships at the Center of the Decision
Cushing's track record is a significant factor in Texas A&M's favor. Four starting offensive linemen from the Aggies' 2025 lineup were selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, including guard Chase Bisontis, taken 34th overall by the Arizona Cardinals. Matthews is expected to visit College Station again this fall, a trip that could prove decisive. However, Miami offensive line coach Alex Mirabal carries his own strong reputation as both a developer and a recruiter, giving the Hurricanes a credible counter.
Miami has kept consistent contact with Matthews, including sending an official offer letter, and the program intends to make at least one or two more pushes before signing day. The Hurricanes' plan is to let their on-field performance during the 2026 season do part of the persuading.
Miami is never going to stop recruiting Matthews. They've kept up correspondence including sending an official offer letter. They hope the season speaks for itself regarding their play and will take another swing or two before it's time to put pen to paper. We also expect to see Matthews back in College Station this season and to date hasn't made any comments or had any actions yet that make you feel like he's wavering on his decision.
— On3's Steve Wiltfong
Matthews' commitment remains the centerpiece of a Texas A&M class that is contending for the top ranking in the 2027 cycle, even after five-star running back Landen Williams-Callis committed to Texas on Saturday night. Until Matthews signs a national letter of intent, both programs will treat his pledge as unsettled business.
