Mark Fletcher Jr. is a running back who is built for big stages. This season, the 6-foot-2, 228-lb player for the Miami Hurricanes has been doing an incredible job at rushing the ball. Fletcher now appears unleashed after battling through a tough Lisfranc injury and splitting carries for two seasons. “This is Mark Fletcher’s first fully healthy offseason,” HC Mario Cristobal said. He is now the leader of Miami’s backfield and one of the ACC’s most potent offensive weapons.

The best part? Fletcher has been dominating defenders with the type of strength that leaves you remembering his name long after the whistle blows. He has already amassed 428 yards and five touchdowns in five games, which places him among the conference’s top rushers. “He has trained like an absolute stud. He is 226, 228 pounds. Lean. He’s as fast as he’s ever been, stronger than he’s ever been, and healthy. So, really excited to see him,” Cristobal said. He is the same guy who had to wait his time behind veterans. And now it’s Mark Fletcher Jr.’s show on the field.

Where is Mark Fletcher Jr. from?

Mark Fletcher Jr. was born and brought up in Plantation, Florida, where he excelled at American Heritage High School, which has one of the best football programs in the state. For him, growing up in Florida, football has been a part of his life. He is an American citizen who grew up in an area that has given birth to some of the biggest names in college football.

Fletcher is the guy with the workhorse build and the cool assurance who can transform a simple run into something electric. He had already established his name locally before even joining college. He had initially committed to Ohio State and had offers from big programs like Florida, Alabama, Florida State, Georgia, Michigan, and Penn State. But he ultimately chose to stay with the Hurricanes. “It just felt right,” Fletcher said after choosing UM. “My family’s here, my dad loved it here. This is home.”

What is Mark Fletcher Jr.’s ethnicity?

There is no public information on his ethnicity available. But what we do know is that he wears his identity from a standout recruit to a leader in Miami’s locker room; his journey reflects the strength and resilience that define his upbringing. Beyond the stats and press releases, Fletcher’s story is one of deep love and affection for his late father, Mark Fletcher Sr., who was popularly referred to as “Big Mark.”

Big Mark was a man who could light up a room with his energy and humor. He was always present at Miami workouts, supporting his son and the squad with his relentless devotion. Fletcher was devastated when his dad unexpectedly died at the age of 53, a few days before the Florida State rivalry game. But he found strength in paying tribute to his father despite all that grief. He said, “I miss him every single day… But just the way he left his legacy, I have nothing to do but carry it the best way.” 

Is Mark Fletcher Jr. African American?

Yes, Mark Fletcher Jr. is of African-American heritage. Fletcher’s pride comes from experiencing hardships like injuries, pressure, and the loss of his beloved dad. Whenever he steps on the field, he always feels as though he is playing for a greater good. After scoring against Duke, he pointed to the sky in tribute to his dad, Big Mark, and said, “That’s my why.”

When you talk to his coaches or teammates, they discuss his heart in addition to his strength and numbers. Mario Cristobal describes him as “a special young man” and said, “Big Mark is watching him from above. He’s proud.” Every time Fletcher puts on his helmet, he’s bringing a part of his father and his community with him, so those words do have an impact because they’re real.