Mario Cristobal has built a name for himself as a recruiting machine. He doesn’t just chase stars—he lands them. And the latest buzz? Carson Beck. The former Georgia QB shocked everyone by flipping to Miami. A $4 million price tag followed, but Coach Cristobal didn’t blink. However, that bold move turned heads across the country. However, the Miami HC’s work is far from over. And now, he’s chasing a former five-star phenom with sky-high potential. And this time, Cristobal might have to dig even deeper, but the spotlight’s burning bright. And the biggest question is: Can he seal the deal again, or is this where the streak runs out?
Well, after landing Beck—straight from powerhouse Georgia—Cristobal’s recruiting rep skyrocketed. Yes, he’s no stranger to 5-star success either, with names like Hayden Lowe and Francis Mauigoa already in the books. Right now, Cristobal’s pushing for another bold move: bringing in a 1,453-yard back to pair with Beck. However, the target? A former LSU star with a wild journey. Yes, he missed the 2021 season due to academic issues but got an extra year thanks to NCAA rules. Just when he was back, disaster struck—a torn ACL in the opener. So, surgery followed, and a medical redshirt saved his 2025 season. But now, with one final shot left, he’s not returning home. Honestly, he’s looking for a fresh start, and Cristobal is ready to roll out the red carpet.
On April 17th, Matt Zenitz of 247Sports dropped the news—former LSU five-star John Emery has officially hit the transfer portal. He’s got one year of eligibility left. Well, since arriving in 2019, Emery has been a steady force for the Tigers’ offense. He’s racked up 223 carries for 1,123 yards and held the distinction of being the last man standing from LSU’s 2019 national title team. But here’s the kicker—Miami might be in play. Gaby Urrutia, a key Miami recruiting insider, stirred the pot today. He posted, “With Miami in the market for a potential No. 3 RB, John Emery is a guy who could make sense.” Honestly, the buzz is real. With Cristobal already making waves by snagging Beck, Emery could be the next domino to fall.
With Miami in the market for a potential No. 3 running back, John Emery is a guy who could make sense. Talented player who could help the Hurricanes behind Lyle and Fletcher. https://t.co/T9oZtAxC66
— Gaby Urrutia (@GabyUrrutia247) April 16, 2025
John Emery’s best days at LSU came in 2020 and 2022. Nearly identical numbers in both—around 375 rushing yards, 75 carries, and 9 total TDs. Consistent. Explosive. Reliable. And in his final game as a Tiger, Emery logged 10 carries for 61 yards against USC before an untimely injury cut things short. But now, it’s a new chapter. When Emery hits the field again, he’ll be rocking a different jersey. And don’t be surprised if it’s Miami orange and green. Look, he’s a proven weapon—one who could slide in nicely behind RBs Mark Fletcher Jr. and Jordan Lyle. Let’s be real; he is a backfield boost that Mario Cristobal might not pass up.
Look, Miami’s backfield is getting a makeover, and they’re hunting for a third running back to back up Fletcher and Lyle. Simply put, with Ajay Allen and Chris Johnson Jr. off to the portal, depth is now a serious concern. Here, enter John Emery—an experienced five-star with the talent to fill the void. Now, if Miami lands him, it’s a game-changer for the ‘Canes.
Well, on March 20, John Emery made it official—he’s coming back for one last ride. His agency broke the news on social media: His last year is loading. One more shot. One more season. And now, the transfer portal is his launchpad. But why not LSU? That chapter’s closed. With a crowded backfield and new talent emerging, Emery saw the writing on the wall. So, it was time for a fresh start. As of now, all eyes are on Miami. The Hurricanes could be his next stop—a new scheme, a clean slate, and a chance to finish strong in a system built for him.
However, Emery came in as a can’t-miss talent. A five-star stud, ranked No. 12 overall in the 2019 class and the No. 2 RB, per On3. He was built for the spotlight. And now, he’s back in the portal—and Miami could be the next big winner. If Coach Cristobal seals the deal, it’s a major boost for the ‘Canes. But on the flip side, the pressure builds in Baton Rouge. Brian Kelly just watched a former five-star walk out the door. And with each departure, the misery mounts.
If Mario Cristobal wins, will Brian Kelly really feel the sting?
After John Emery announced his NCAA return, all eyes turned to LSU HC Brian Kelly. The question lingered—was there still a spot for the veteran back in Baton Rouge? However, Kelly didn’t dodge it. He kept it real and respectful. “We haven’t talked to John about it, and it was the first that we had heard,” said Kelly. Adding, “We love John. But sometimes, you know, things happen and we don’t know where they came from. We will be supportive in any way we can, but we are set where we are at in terms of the running back position. Love John, and we will be here to help and support him.”
So, it was a classy send-off, but the message was crystal clear—LSU has turned the page. And why not? LSU’s 2025 backfield is reloaded and ready to roll. The Tigers return familiar faces like Caden Durham and Kaleb Jackson, both hungry for bigger roles. But the real buzz? Freshman phenom Harlem Berry. A five-star with serious hype and game-breaking speed. He’s the future. To be honest, with talent stacked and depth in place, LSU’s running back room is locked in and loaded for the season ahead.
However, losing John Emery might sting for LSU. His experience and comfort in Baton Rouge were invaluable. But it seems Emery was pushed into the portal, not just walking away. Although for LSU, it’s a tough blow, for Miami, this could be a golden opportunity. If the ‘Canes land him, it’s a win. Either way, the dominoes are falling, and Mario Cristobal’s Miami stands to gain big.
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