The Miami Hurricanes have actively utilized the NCAA transfer portal to bolster their running back corps in recent years. While some additions have yielded significant returns, others have struggled to make an impact due to injuries or limited opportunities.
Damien Martinez: A Shining Example
One of the most successful transfer additions has been Damien Martinez. After a stellar career at Oregon State, where he earned Pac-12 Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2022 and First Team All-Pac-12 in both 2022 and 2023, Martinez transferred to Miami following the Pac-12’s dissolution. In the 2024 season, he rushed for 1,002 yards and 10 touchdowns, becoming the first Miami running back to surpass 1,000 rushing yards since 2016. His performance earned him honorable mention All-ACC honors and led to his selection by the Seattle Seahawks in the 7th round of the 2025 NFL Draft .
Ajay Allen: Potential Hindered by Injury
Ajay Allen transferred from Nebraska to Miami with high expectations. In his brief stint at Nebraska, he showcased promise with 190 rushing yards and two touchdowns in just four games before a season-ending collarbone injury. At Miami, Allen contributed 361 rushing yards and five touchdowns in the 2023 season. However, injuries continued to hamper his ability to consistently contribute .
Rodney Hill: Awaiting Breakthrough
Rodney Hill joined Miami from Florida State, bringing with him 334 rushing yards and two touchdowns accumulated over two seasons. With three years of eligibility remaining, Hill has the opportunity to develop and make a significant impact in Miami’s backfield .
Departures: A Mixed Legacy
While some transfers have bolstered Miami’s running game, others have departed with unfulfilled potential. TreVonte’ Citizen, a highly touted recruit, never played a game for Miami due to injuries and entered the transfer portal in 2024 . Henry Parrish Jr., who led Miami in rushing in both 2022 and 2023, transferred back to Ole Miss after accumulating 1,241 rushing yards and ten touchdowns over two seasons . Don Chaney Jr., another four-star recruit, transferred to Louisville after a career at Miami that was marred by injuries .
Conclusion
Miami’s strategy of utilizing the transfer portal for running backs has yielded mixed results. While players like Damien Martinez have made significant contributions, others have struggled due to injuries or limited opportunities. As the Hurricanes continue to navigate the transfer portal, the success of future additions will be crucial in shaping the team’s offensive prowess.
