Commitment Breakdown: Max Buchanan

Yesterday, the Miami Hurricanes landed a major commitment from four-star offensive lineman Max Buchanan, a 6’4″, 300-pound lineman from Sanford, Florida. Buchanan’s decision to join the Canes marks a significant win for head coach Mario Cristobal and offensive line coach Alex Mirabal, as he chose Miami over a list of suitors that included Penn State, Florida State, Clemson, UCF, and Ole Miss.

Buchanan, who plays left tackle for his high school team, fits the mold of Miami’s current recruiting strategy: big, athletic linemen who can move well in space. His attributes include being a “people mover” with quickness and agility, tenacity, strength at the point of attack, and strong pass protection skills, with good footwork for his size and moves well in space. At 6’4″ and 300 pounds during his high school career, Buchanan has the versatility to play both tackle and guard at the collegiate level although Miami initially would project him as a guard.

During his commitment interview with Rivals, Buchanan emphasized the strong recruitment efforts by Miami’s coaching staff. “Miami was contacting me the most,” Buchanan said. “Coach Pata, Coach Mirabal, Coach Cristobal. It’s really the whole offensive staff.”

Early in the recruiting process, Clemson was seen as the frontrunner for Buchanan. However, Miami’s persistent efforts and clear development plan won him over. The Canes showcased how they could prepare him for an NFL career and highlighted the opportunities available in a vibrant city like Miami.

Buchanan’s commitment continues Miami’s trend of targeting large, athletic offensive linemen. Most of their recruits in this position group exceed 6’4″ and 300 pounds. Buchanan is the fourth offensive lineman in Miami’s 2025 recruiting class, joining Takaylen Muex (6’5″, 340 lbs), Demetrius Campbell (6’6″, 300 lbs), and Jaden Wilkerson (6’6″, 330 lbs).

Miami is expected to continue bolstering their offensive line, aiming to add at least one more elite interior lineman this year. Buchanan’s addition continues the transformation of the Canes OL of bringing in championship caliber players that can compete with SEC and Big Ten lines.

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