2025 LB Mark Iheanachor commits to SMU, Rhett Lashlee: ‘I feel like he’s bringing the program back to a good place’
Oklahoma and SMU were the final two schools for Harbor City (Calif.) Narbonne three-star linebacker Mark Iheanachor. It ended up being a “very close” race for the 6-foot-2, 215-pound recruit.
The Mustangs ended up rising to the top for Iheanachor, as he enjoyed the environment at SMU because of its family-like atmosphere and similarity to California. Iheanachor also believes in head coach Rhett Lashlee and his staff and followed up on that feeling by committing to the Mustangs on Monday.
“Their scheme stood out to me,” Iheanachor told On3. “They have a plan for me to come in as a true freshman and play and get reps, as well as have an opportunity to start.”
Iheanachor took his official visit to SMU from June 7-9. During that trip, he enjoyed spending time with the players and coaches and felt that the visit went “perfect.”
The No. 42 player in California has built a solid connection with not only Lashlee, but also co-defensive coordinator/linebackers coach Maurice Crum Jr. Iheanachor told the Mustangs assistant that he was choosing SMU ahead of publicly announcing his decision.
“He was excited because I was the No. 1 linebacker on their board,” said Iheanachor, the No. 503 overall prospect and No. 51 linebacker in the 2025 On3 Industry Ranking. “With him getting me, I’m one of his big-time recruits.”
Crum, Jr. and Lashlee helped make SMU the right choice for Iheanachor
The talented defender is excited to learn under Crum Jr. at SMU. He believes Crum Jr. is a very good linebackers coach and can prepare him for the NFL.
Iheanachor is confident that the coach will have him ready to go to the league after three years of college football. The three-star also shared that Crum Jr. will help him grow both inside and outside of football.
“I like his energy and his mentality off the field,” Iheanachor said. “He wants you to become a better man and a better person. I also like the way he coaches. He holds you to a high standard and once he sees you can be up there, he’s going to keep you up there.”
SMU’s head man has also made a strong impression on Iheanachor. This fall, Lashlee will be leading the Mustangs into their first season in the ACC.
“I feel like he’s bringing the program back to a good place,” Iheanachor said. “Going into the ACC, they have the talent and everything they need to compete NIL-wise against the big teams in the ACC. He’s a great person… I asked the players about him and they said he’s a great coach and that he cares about you both during and after football.”