Can the Miami Hurricanes secure this massive offensive lineman? He's a four-star talent with wrestling strength, but fierce competition looms.
Miami, FL. – The Miami Hurricanes look to get back on track in the high school recruiting trail, despite missing out on key prospects as of late, including elite four-star running back Myson Johnson-Cook to the Auburn Tigers. Plus, there are tons of noise spiraling about five-star offensive tackle Mark Matthews. The program still has more building to do and could regain ground as Conner Rutherford reaches a decision.
The Chillicothe, Ohio, native currently attends Chillicothe High School, a public institution located in Ross County. Rutherford has played snaps on both sides of the field, primarily as a left tackle. Defensively, he’s recorded 19 total tackles, nine solos and 15 assists, including a sack, but the recruit is capable of earning pancake blocks and moving defensive ends at will.
Rutherford is reportedly eyeing four programs: reigning National Champion Indiana Hoosiers, North Carolina State Wolfpack, Minnesota Golden Gophers, and Hurricanes.
The offensive tackle is ranked as a four-star recruit, 724th nationally, 50th among the position, and 25th in the state of Ohio for the 2027 class, according to Rivals Industry Rankings. He’s received interest and offers from numerous programs, including the South Florida Bulls, Virginia Cavaliers, Arkansas Razorbacks, North Carolina Tar Heels, Colorado Buffaloes, and Liberty Flames, among several others.
The Hurricanes are nationally known for building an identity around dominating matchups in the trenches. In the 2026 NFL Draft, three offensive linemen from the program were selected, including center James Brockermeyer signing with the Atlanta Falcons as a free agent. The team finished ranked No. 16 in total sacks allowed in the Football Bowl Subdivision in 16 games.
Rutherford has an opportunity to develop with a program whose head coach, Mario Cristobal, was a former player in the trenches, and an offensive line coach in Alex Mirabal, who developed an All-American in Francis Mauigoa, who was drafted with the No. 10 pick by the New York Giants.
The four-star prospect is listed at 6-6, 300 pounds, and has a background in wrestling. He’s represented by Darren Junior Recruiting Source LLC.
Rutherford made an unofficial visit with the Hurricanes on April 4, having an opportunity to watch the team in spring practice action.
However, the biggest threat in the recruiting process, ahead of an official announcement, is the Wolfpack program. According to 247Sports’ Michael Clark, they’re predicted to land the heavily-sized offensive tackle.
The Hurricanes can continue making final attempts with hopes of securing a commitment.
It’s a race to the finish.
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