Feb. 5, 2026, 5:45 p.m. ET
After helping to lead the Miami Hurricanes to an appearance in the national championship game this past year, running backs coach Matt Merritt is moving on to a bigger opportunity. It just so happens that this bigger opportunity is at the next level.
On Thursday afternoon, On3’s Pete Nakos reported that Merritt is expected to be named the next running backs coach for the Arizona Cardinals, joining the NFL ranks for the first time in his career. Merritt was in Coral Gables for two seasons, from 2024-26.
Before coming to Miami, Merritt coached at USF in 2023, where he was named to the AFCA 35-Under-35, honoring the top young coaches in the game. Before coaching at USC, Merritt worked at Georgia Southern, Tennessee, and James Madison. He was also a member of the national championship-winning staff with the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Now, after coaching the likes of Mark Fletcher Jr., CharMar Brown, and Girard Pringle Jr., Merritt will be going to Arizona and coaching
Contact/Follow@College_Wire on X and@College_Wires on Threads. Like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of college sports news, notes, and opinions. a room that includes James Conner and Trey Benson.
Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!