Mario Cristobal names true freshman who is earning a larger role in Miami’s offense

Miami true freshman tight end Jaleel Skinner could be in line for more playing time in the coming weeks, coach Mario Cristobal said Wednesday morning.

Cristobal told reporters that Skinner is developing at a “high level” and could have a bigger role in the offense moving forward. Cristobal said he could play as an in-line tight end or in the slot.

Playing Skinner in the slot could be one solution for Miami’s injury issues at wide receiver. The Canes are expected to be without Xavier Restrepo (foot) and Jacolby George (thumb) for at least the next few weeks.

Skinner has the size to be a matchup problem for opposing defenses. He’s listed at 6-foot-5, 210 pounds.

So far this season, Skinner has just 1 catch for 30 yards (Bethune-Cookman). He also carried the ball once for 6 yards against Southern Miss. He did not record any statistics vs. Texas A&M.

Miami is loaded at the tight end position. The Canes have Will Mallory and Eljiah Arroyo ahead of Skinner on the depth chart. However, Skinner could be versatile enough to play as an inside receiver in certain formations.

Mallory told reporters on Wednesday that Skinner is “physically freakish.”

Miami hosts Middle Tennessee in Week 4.