Louis drawn to ’Canes by ‘good vibes’

The Hurricanes signed an American Heritage star halfback, Mark Fletcher Jr., in their 2023 class, and he made a big impact in his first year on campus.

Miami is hoping history repeats itself with one of American Heritage’s latest standout running backs, 2025 star Byron Louis, who is close with the rising Hurricanes sophomore.

“Mark is the big bro,” Louis told the South Florida Sun Sentinel. “So far he has had good things to say about Miami and how he wants us to play in the backfield together.”

Louis, who is rated a four-star prospect in 247Sports’ composite rankings, had 1,224 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns last season and was a Sun Sentinel first-team All-County pick. He is listed as the No. 16 running back and No. 182 player in the 2025 class.

In addition to Miami, Louis holds offers from Auburn, Florida and Florida State, among others. Louis has visited UM several times, and said his previous trips to Coral Gables have been positive.

“My favorite part about the trips to Miami is the good vibes and great people whenever I am there,” Louis said.

The local star said he talks frequently with Miami head coach Mario Cristobal and analyst Benedick Hyppolite, who is the former head coach at Hallandale High and Miami Carol City High.

“I have been in touch with coach Cristobal and coach Hyppolite,” Louis said. “The conversations have been going good. They just keep reminding that they are interested (in) getting me to the U.”

The Hurricanes have a new running backs coach this year after Tim Harris Jr. left to be the offensive coordinator at UCF. UM hired Matt Merritt from USF, and Louis said he has had a brief opportunity to talk to Miami’s new running backs coach.

“I am looking forward to having more conversations with him and hopefully meeting him soon in person,” Louis said.

After going a disappointing 7-6 last season, expectations are higher for Miami this year. The Hurricanes will return many key players and they brought in several transfers and freshmen, including star quarterback Cameron Ward. Louis said he would like to visit UM in the spring. As for this fall, he has a high opinion of where the Hurricanes could end up.

“I would like to see them win a national championship,” Louis said.