Malachi Toney, Darian Mensah Highlight Miami’s Star Power on 2026 Way-Too-Early All-America Radar
The future is bright in Coral Gables - and the rest of the country is starting to take notice. Miami wide receiver Malachi Toney has been named the all-purpose player on the 2026 Way-Too-Early All-America team, a nod to one of the most electrifying freshmen performances college football has seen in years.
Quarterback Darian Mensah also earned a mention, while running back Mark Fletcher Jr. and edge rusher Damon Wilson were listed as players who just missed the cut. But make no mistake - all four are going to play massive roles in Miami’s 2026 campaign.
Let’s start with Toney, who didn’t just break records in 2025 - he shattered expectations. As a true freshman, the 18-year-old led the FBS with 109 receptions, finished fifth nationally with 1,211 receiving yards, tossed two touchdown passes, and added 298 yards on 23 punt returns.
That kind of production is rare for any player, let alone someone who should’ve been finishing his senior year of high school. Toney reclassified to the Class of 2025 out of American Heritage High School in Plantation, Florida, and immediately became the go-to playmaker in Miami’s offense.
His connection with then-quarterback Carson Beck was instant and lethal. Toney not only led the Hurricanes in receptions and receiving yards - he nearly doubled the output of Miami’s second-leading receiver, Keelan Marion. The chemistry between Beck and Toney was a driving force in Miami’s explosive passing attack last season, and now with Beck gone, the baton has been passed to Darian Mensah.
Mensah, who transferred in and quickly made his presence felt, was one of six quarterbacks highlighted as potential All-America candidates. And for good reason.
He finished second in the nation in passing yards with 3,973 in 2025, showing off a big arm, poise under pressure, and the ability to make plays outside the pocket. While the quarterback spot was one of the toughest to narrow down, Mensah’s inclusion in the conversation speaks volumes about his impact - and his upside heading into 2026.
Then there’s Mark Fletcher Jr., the workhorse who powered Miami’s ground game all the way to the National Championship game. In four College Football Playoff matchups, Fletcher Jr. racked up 75 carries for 507 yards and two touchdowns, adding three catches for 33 yards and another score through the air. He was the steady engine behind Miami’s postseason surge, and if he keeps that pace in 2026, don’t be surprised if his name starts popping up in serious Heisman Trophy discussions.
On the other side of the ball, Damon Wilson could be the X-factor for Miami’s defense. The former Missouri edge rusher brings both production and experience to a defensive line that’s looking to replace key pieces like Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor.
In 2025, Wilson posted 23 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 9.0 sacks, an interception, two pass breakups, and a fumble recovery. That kind of stat line tells the story of a player who can impact the game in multiple ways - and one who could quickly become the anchor of Miami’s front seven.
One name that didn’t make ESPN’s early list but deserves attention? Cooper Barkate.
The former Duke wideout already has a strong connection with Mensah, hauling in 72 catches for 1,106 yards and seven touchdowns in 2025. With Barkate and Toney now lining up together, Miami’s wide receiver room suddenly looks like one of the most dangerous in the country.
So as we look ahead to 2026, Miami isn’t just bringing back talent - they’re bringing back star power. Toney is already a household name.
Mensah is knocking on that door. Fletcher Jr. is a bruising back with game-changing potential.
Wilson brings disruptive energy to the defense. And Barkate could be the under-the-radar weapon that ties it all together.
If this group stays healthy and continues to evolve, the Hurricanes won’t just be chasing individual honors - they’ll be chasing another shot at a national title.