Putting together ESPN's annual preseason ranking of the top 100 players in college football is a tricky task, to say the least.
It's an attempt to highlight the biggest returning stars in the sport based on their past success and production, while also factoring in our expectations for who's poised to shine in 2026.
In an era of extreme roster turnover every offseason, this exercise feels like more of a guessing game than ever before.
Despite our best efforts, last year's preseason top 100 made no mention of Trinidad Chambliss, Kewan Lacy, Malachi Toney or Arvell Reese. The list didn't even include the player who would finish No. 1 in our end-of-season rankings, Heisman Trophy-winning Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. That just goes to show how quickly new superstars can rise up and take over this sport.
This time around, there was no need for debate about the top of our preseason list and little disagreement on which players belonged in the top five. But as myself and four of ESPN's college football experts (Bill Connelly, David Hale, Adam Rittenberg and Paolo Uggetti) put our heads together to build out the rest of the top 100, there were tough calls to be made throughout.
Oregon led the way with eight players making this year's preseason top 100 after successfully convincing many of them to turn down the NFL draft to keep chasing a national title. Defending national champ Indiana and Texas each had seven players make the list.
There's no doubt the postseason version of this top 100 will feature lots of rising transfers, freshmen and new starters who put up big numbers and grabbed the national spotlight. This sport delivers those out-of-nowhere surprises year after year.
But for now, here's how we're ranking the best of the best in college football entering the 2026 season. -- Max Olson
Jump to:
100-76 | 75-51 | 50-26 | 25-1
100. Jaxton Eck
LB, New Mexico, senior
2025 notable stats: 128 total tackles, 18 run stops, 1.5 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
After an FCS All-America campaign at Idaho, which featured 134 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss, Eck made the jump to FBS and produced almost identical numbers. He made a tackle for every 5.7 snaps, swarming from sideline to sideline and leading a defense that improved from 130th in scoring defense in 2024 to 46th in 2025. -- Connelly
99. Ryan Coleman-Williams
WR, Alabama, junior
2025 notable stats: 689 receiving yards, 14.1 yards per catch, 4 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
One of the most tantalizing freshmen of the 2024 season, Coleman-Williams struggled with drops in 2025. But even in what seemed like a terrible season for the sophomore, he still caught passes of 75, 54, 41, 38 and 31 yards, all against power conference opponents. Just imagine what he might do in a good year. -- Connelly
98. Adam Trick
OLB/EDGE, Texas Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 25 solo tackles, 8.5 sacks, 3 FF
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Trick, a Miami (Ohio) transfer, was all-MAC first team in 2025 with 59 tackles, including 12.5 for loss; 8.5 sacks; and 13 QB hurries. He appeared in 41 games with 16 starts before transferring to Tech. -- Dave Wilson
97. Kemari Copeland
DL, Virginia Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 48 total tackles, 7.5 TFLs, 4.5 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Copeland established himself as one of the best defensive tackles in the ACC last season and is well deserving of a spot on the preseason All-ACC team as the stalwart returning to the middle of the Hokies' defensive front. The 6-foot-2, 305-pound Copeland turned heads when he broke the program's bench press record this summer with a lift of 510 pounds. That improved strength and another year as a starter will give him a chance to post a career year. -- Andrea Adelson
96. Yhonzae Pierre
LB, Alabama, senior
2025 notable stats: 39 solo tackles, 8 sacks, 3 FFs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
A dynamic athlete and Alabama's best pass rusher, Pierre recorded eight sacks with an elite 17.5% pressure rate last season. Of his 69 tackles in 2025, 20 were at or behind the line of scrimmage, and most of his best performances came during the Crimson Tide's midseason run that all but clinched a playoff berth: In wins over Missouri, Tennessee, South Carolina and LSU, he recorded eight tackles for loss with five sacks and 22 pressures. -- Connelly
95. Caleb Hawkins
RB, Oklahoma State, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 231 carries, 1,434 yards, 25 rushing TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 68
Hawkins was one of the breakout playmakers behind North Texas' FBS-leading (45.1 points per game) offense last season. The former three-star recruit proved difficult to corral during his freshman season as Hawkins logged 989 yards after contact, 43 runs of 10-plus yards and an FBS-best 62 broken tackles, all while leading the country with 25 rushing touchdowns. After following ex-North Texas coach Eric Morris to Oklahoma State, Hawkins enters 2026 as the backfield leader of a revamped Cowboys offense. -- Eli Lederman
94. Ben Roberts
LB, Texas Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 44 solo tackles, 2 FFs, 4 INTs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Roberts is the only returning player in the country with more than 80 tackles in each of the past three seasons. Last season, he had 90 tackles (four for loss) with four interceptions, six pass breakups and two forced fumbles, finishing the season with a career-high 16 stops in the Orange Bowl against Oregon. Roberts was the MVP of the Big 12 championship game despite being injured in the first half; he returned and made two second-half interceptions. -- Wilson
93. Robert Fitzgerald
DB, Northwestern, senior
2025 notable stats: 69 solo tackles, 6 TFLs, 4 PDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Fitzgerald is among the nation's most underrated defenders. He led the Big Ten and ranked second nationally with 69 solo tackles last season, and he led Big Ten defensive backs in tackles for loss with six, including one sack. The second-team All-Big Ten selection also had four pass breakups, an interception and a fumble recovery. Fitzgerald had five games with 10 or more tackles. -- Rittenberg
92. Justice Haynes
RB, Georgia Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 121 carries, 857 yards, 10 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Haynes established himself as one of the best running backs in the country last season at Michigan, averaging 7.1 yards per carry before missing the final four games of the regular season because of a foot injury. At Georgia Tech, Haynes has an opportunity to take a star turn in an offense that emphasizes the run while returning to play his final season in his home state. -- Adelson
91. Brayden Jacobs
OL, Clemson, sophomore
2025 notable stat: 7 QB pressures allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
The 6-7, 345-pound sophomore is expected to anchor the Clemson offensive front this season after impressing as a true freshman in 2025. Jacobs got better as the season went on, going from playing one snap in the opener to starting four games before a foot injury ended his season early. The son of former NFL player Brandon Jacobs, Brayden has imposing size and impressive ability, with the potential to be one of the best offensive linemen to come out of Clemson under Dabo Swinney. -- Adelson
90. Kenyatta Jackson Jr.
DE, Ohio State, senior
2025 notable stats: 6.5 sacks, 11 TFLs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Playing on a loaded Ohio State defense -- which featured three first-round picks in April's NFL draft -- Jackson produced. He tied for second on the team with 6.5 sacks to go along with 11 tackles for loss. One of only three returning defensive starters, alongside defensive backs Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Jaylen McClain, from last season's Buckeyes defense, Jackson is being counted on for an even bigger role up front. -- Jake Trotter
89. John Mateer
QB, Oklahoma, senior
2025 notable stats: 2,885 passing yards, 22 total TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
In his first season after transferring from Washington State, Mateer was every bit as tough as advertised, rushing more than 10 times per game and converting 34 first downs. He also topped 300 passing yards on four occasions and helped lead Oklahoma to the College Football Playoff despite being limited for much of the season by a hand injury. Mateer's physicality is unique, but so is his overall upside. -- Connelly
88. Byrum Brown
QB, Auburn, senior
2025 notable stats: 3,158 passing yards, 42 total TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 91
One of the bigger (6-3, 232 pounds) and faster quarterbacks (7.1 yards per carry, not including sacks) in the country, Brown mastered new Auburn coach Alex Golesh's up-tempo offensive system at South Florida last season -- he had the highest Total QBR of any Group of 5 quarterback in 2025. Now he'll attempt to bring its success to the Plains. -- Connelly
87. Will Heldt
DE, Clemson, senior
2025 notable stats: 20 solo tackles, 15.5 TFLs, 7.5 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Heldt returns for one more season with the Tigers after making an impact in his first year with the program in 2025. Heldt started all 13 games and played 583 snaps, leading the team in both sacks and tackles for loss while adding four pass breakups and a forced fumble. Heldt is the lone returning starter coming back to the Clemson defensive front and will be expected to not only lead that unit but help the Tigers get back to reestablishing their line as among the most formidable in the country. -- Adelson
86. Mario Craver
WR, Texas A&M, junior
2025 notable stats: 59 receptions, 917 yards, 4 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 87
Craver had a breakout year in his first season with Texas A&M in 2025, finishing second on the team with 59 receptions for 917 yards and four touchdowns in nine starts. He also added 11 rushes for 81 yards with one touchdown. Just check the tape from the Notre Dame game -- in which he had more than 200 yards receiving -- for what he can do with the ball in his hands. With Marcel Reed and a veteran receiver group returning, expectations are high for the Aggies to return to the CFP. -- Adelson
85. Raleek Brown
RB, Texas, senior
2025 notable stats: 186 carries, 1,141 yards, 6 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Brown transferred to Texas from Arizona State and will team with Hollywood Smothers to try to jump-start the Texas run game after the Longhorns failed to run the ball consistently a season ago. Brown played in 12 games for the Sun Devils last season, setting a program record for rushing yards in a road game with 255 against Colorado. He led the team in rushing and had 1,466 all-purpose yards. His versatility as a threat out of the backfield is a huge advantage. -- Adelson
84. Cam Cook
RB, West Virginia, senior
2025 notable stats: 295 carries, 1,659 yards, 16 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 44
Cook was one of the top transfer portal running backs this offseason after he finished as the nation's rushing leader at Jacksonville State, and the 5-9, 203-pound senior should provide an immediate jolt to coach Rich Rodriquez's Mountaineers offense, which ranked 14th in the Big 12 in scoring last fall. A former TCU standout, Cook made life difficult on would-be tacklers a year ago, ranking top three nationally in first downs (84), runs of 10-plus yards (54) and yards after contact (1,075). -- Lederman
83. Trey White
OLB/EDGE, Texas Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 30 solo tackles, 47 total tackles, 7 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
White arrives from San Diego State, where he and Texas' Collin Simmons became the only two players nationally with more than 19 sacks and more than 28 tackles for loss in the previous two years. White's 19.5 sacks in 2024-25 are third behind former Texas Tech star David Bailey and Simmons. Last year, he had 53 tackles (10.5 for loss) and seven sacks. White has started 26 games and played in 40 career games. -- Wilson
82. Dakorien Moore
WR, Oregon, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 34 receptions, 497 yards, 3 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
The nation's No. 4 recruit in 2025 averaged 14.6 yards per reception as a true freshman and is poised to take another step as he catches passes again from quarterback Dante Moore (no relation). Moore had multiple receptions in all but one game he played, starting seven games and posting the fourth-highest freshman receiving total (497 yards) in team history. -- Rittenberg
81. Noah Fifita
QB, Arizona, senior
2025 notable stats: 3,228 passing yards, 29 TDs, 71.2 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 94
No active quarterback at the FBS level has thrown more career touchdowns than Fifita (73), whose loyalty to Arizona is particularly noteworthy in an era where he likely could have chased a bigger payday elsewhere. In 2025, he was named first-team All-Big 12 after throwing for 3,228 yards and a school-record 29 touchdowns. Fifita took over as the starter for Arizona in 2023 and has helped the Wildcats to a pair of nine-win regular seasons. -- Kyle Bonagura
80. Princewill Umanmielen
DE, LSU, senior
2025 notable stats: 45 total tackles, 13 TFLs, 9 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Umanmielen transferred from Ole Miss to LSU to play for coach Lane Kiffin after finding great success with the Rebels last season. He had a tackle for loss in 11 games, including the final eight of the season, as he played in 15 games with one start. In addition to the sacks and tackles for loss, he had 13 quarterback hurries. The potential to have a career season with the Tigers is high. -- Adelson
79. Anthony Smith
DL, Minnesota, senior
2025 notable stats: 21 solo tackles, 17.5 TFLs, 12.5 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: 62
Smith is one of the most prolific returning defensive players in the country. A first-team All-Big Ten selection last year, Smith led the conference with 12.5 sacks and was tied for fifth nationally with 17.5 tackles for loss. He could've left for the NFL. Instead, Smith will be looking to propel the Gophers into the Big Ten title conversation. --Trotter
78. Koi Perich
DB, Oregon, junior
2025 notable stats: 39 solo tackles, 1 INTs, 1 FFs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
What started as a two-way experiment at Minnesota has now evolved into Perich's arrival in Eugene where he will instead channel his full efforts into being a defensive back for the Ducks. In the same way that former Purdue DB Dillon Thieneman transferred to Oregon and excelled in his final year before heading to the NFL, Perich should fit in seamlessly in the Ducks' secondary and could be primed for a big season. -- Uggetti
77. Kam Robinson
LB, Virginia, senior
2025 notable stats: 64 total tackles, 4.5 TFLs, 2 INTs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
If Robinson can stay healthy for the entire season, coach Tony Elliott believes he has the potential to be one of the best defensive players in the country. Robinson has played in 31 career games, but last year was his best yet -- despite having his season cut short with a knee injury after eight games. His ability to be near the ball and make impact plays is what makes him a standout. In 2025, Robinson became the only FBS player in the past 20 years with a blocked punt, interception return for a touchdown and a fumble recovery in the same season. -- Adelson
76. Teitum Tuioti
LB, Oregon, senior
2025 notable stats: 33 solo tackles, 9.5 sacks, 2 FFs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
It did not take very long for Tuioti to prove himself as a force to be reckoned with in Eugene. The linebacker has only grown in stature since earning a role in the rotation as a freshman, and now, as he heads into his senior season, Tuioti is not just an anchor of the Oregon defense but one of the best linebackers in the country. -- Uggetti
75. Taylor Wein
DL, Oklahoma, junior
2025 notable stats: 44 total tackles, 14 TFLs, 7 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Defense drove OU's 2025 playoff bid, and a ruthlessly aggressive defensive line drove the defense. The Sooners ranked first nationally in stuff rate (run stops at or behind the line) and second in sack rate, and Wein, who entered the season as an unheralded sophomore, was an enormous contributor in both regards: He combined 10 run stops with a team-leading seven sacks. -- Connelly
74. Amare Ferrell
DB, Indiana, senior
2025 notable stats: 48 total tackles, 4 INTs, 6 PDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Ferrell has been right in the middle action from the moment he arrived at Indiana, appearing in 12 games as a freshman and going on to start in 15 of 16 games last season. The Florida native is emblematic of how sound Indiana's defense has been. Ferrell simply makes plays at the right time -- be it an interception that leads to a touchdown or a go-ahead field goal or a pass breakup of a hail mary to secure a victory. All signs point to him having yet another strong showing in the Hoosiers' secondary this year. -- Uggetti
73. Kevin Jennings
QB, SMU, senior
2025 notable stats: 3,641 passing yards, 30 total TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Jennings threw for 250 yards and had three touchdowns in the regular-season finale against Cal last year, a game that, had SMU won, would've sent the Mustangs to the ACC championship game for the second straight year. That's astonishing for a team that was playing in the American in 2024, but it speaks to Jennings' legacy. He led his high school to a Texas state championship in 2021 -- the school's first in 63 years. He's a Dallas legend already, but if he reaches his goals in 2026, Jennings and SMU could not just make the playoff, but win a few games, too. -- Hale
72. Zach Lutmer
DB, Iowa, senior
2025 notable stats: 71 total tackles, 3 INTs, 7 PDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Iowa loses some core pieces from the nation's No. 8 scoring defense, but Lutmer remains to anchor the secondary after earning second-team All-Big Ten honors. The 6-1, 203-pound safety intercepted three passes, including one for a touchdown against eventual Heisman Trophy winner Mendoza of Indiana. Lutmer collected 71 tackles, including 5.5 for loss and a sack, and is already seen as one of Iowa's top leaders entering his third year. -- Rittenberg
71. Jamari Johnson
TE, Oregon, junior
2025 notable stats: 32 receptions, 510 yards, 3 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Johnson takes over as Oregon's primary tight end for Kenyon Sadiq, who was the 16th pick of the New York Jets. After transferring from Louisville, Johnson was a key piece last year in the Ducks' balanced receiving attack, catching 32 passes for 510 yards and three touchdowns, including four catches apiece in Oregon's two playoff appearances. -- Trotter
70. DeSean Bishop
RB, Tennessee, junior
2025 notable stats: 182 carries, 1,076 yards, 16 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
The Volunteers didn't have to go far to find Bishop, who starred at Karns High School in Knoxville. They gave him a chance to walk-on, which was his only offer from an FBS team. He's on scholarship now after he ran for 1,076 yards with 16 touchdowns in 2025. Over the past two seasons, 947 of Bishop's 1,531 rushing yards came after contact and he forced 47 missed tackles. With a new quarterback starting under center, the Vols might ask even more from Bishop in 2026. -- Mark Schlabach
69. Shadre Hurst
OL, Houston, senior
2025 notable stat: 0 sacks allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Hurst was one of three former Tulane players to join coach Willie Fritz's roster via the transfer portal this offseason, and the 6-2, 295-pound interior offensive lineman could ultimately prove to be one of the Cougars' most important additions in 2026. A two-time All-AAC selection, Hurst did not allow a sack and was credited with only nine blown blocks last fall while playing the eighth-most snaps (853) among all FBS left guards. He brings experience, maturity and elite agility to a Houston offensive line replacing three starters. -- Lederman
68. CJ Bailey
QB, NC State, junior
2025 notable stats: 3,105 passing yards, 25 TDs, 79.4 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Bailey's 79.4 QBR is the seventh-best among returning QBs from last year, which underscores just how impressive he has been while largely flying beneath the radar nationally. Bailey racked up 31 total touchdowns, threw for more than 3,100 yards and completed 69% of his throws. He had a better yards-per-pass rate than Ty Simpson, a better QBR than Darian Mensah and threw more TD passes than Jayden Maiava. If you didn't notice before, you will in 2026. -- Hale
67. Ellis Robinson IV
DB, Georgia, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 20 total tackles, 4 INTs, 7 PDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Robinson was the No. 1 cornerback in the Class of 2024 according to ESPN300, but it took him a little while to get started at Georgia. He played in only four games as a freshman and redshirted. Things clicked for Robinson last season, however, as he made 12 starts and became one of the most reliable pass defenders in the FBS. The former IMG Academy star had four interceptions, which tied for the SEC lead, and allowed only 15 receptions on 35 targets. -- Schlabach
66. Terrance Carter Jr.
TE, Texas Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 55 receptions, 624 yards, 5 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
In his first year with the Red Raiders after transferring from Louisiana, Carter had 55 catches for 624 yards -- most nationally among returning tight ends -- and five touchdowns. He ranked fourth nationally among tigh ends in catches and fifth in yardage. He's an explosive player who sometimes lines up in the slot, plus had 12 catches of more than 20 yards last season. -- Wilson
65. Bo Jackson
RB, Ohio State, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 179 carries, 1,090 yards, 6 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
After sitting out last year's opener against Texas, Jackson quickly won the Ohio State starting running back job. He became the fifth Buckeye true freshman to top 1,000 rushing yards, joining Robert Smith, Maurice Clarrett, J.K. Dobbins and TreVeyon Henderson. Under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who forged a reputation for calling strong ground games in the NFL, Jackson could be in for a monster sophomore season. -- Trotter
64. Demond Williams Jr.
QB, Washington, junior
2025 notable stats: 3,065 total yards, 31 total TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Williams projects as one of the nation's top dual-threat quarterbacks as he enters his second full season as Washington's QB1. The third-year sophomore had 3,065 passing yards and 25 passing touchdowns with only eight interceptions, while adding 611 rushing yards and six more scores. After nearly leaving UW in January, Williams is back to build on a season where he finished in the top seven for single-season performance, including No. 2 in completion percentage (.695). -- Rittenberg
63. Damon Wilson II
DE, Miami, senior
2025 notable stats: 23 total tackles, 9 sacks, 1 INT
2025 postseason ranking: NR
No Rueben Bain Jr. or Akheem Mesidor? No problem for Miami. The Canes simply reloaded by landing Wilson, a Missouri transfer, to the fray. Wilson is one of the top pure pass rushers in college football, racking up nine sacks and 13 QB hurries last season, with a 14.1% pressure rate off the edge. -- Hale
62. Suntarine Perkins
LB, Ole Miss, senior
2025 notable stats: 81 total tackles, 3 FFs, 1 INT
2025 postseason ranking: 77
The Ole Miss defense is undergoing quite a bit of change, but the Rebels still have Perkins, who led the team with 14 tackles for loss and added 4.5 sacks, 14 run stops, six passes defended, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries during last year's CFP semifinal run. He has taken on a larger role every season, and in 2026, he'll be a leader and defensive stalwart for a preseason top-10 team. -- Connelly
61. Jayden Virgin-Morgan
LB, Boise State, senior
2025 notable stats: 27 solo tackles, 6 sacks, 2 FFs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
The most proven disruptor in the Group of 6, Virgin-Morgan returns for a third season as a BSU starter. The first two years produced two conference titles, a CFP appearance, 16 sacks, 20 run stops and only 14 missed tackles. Virgin-Morgan boasts NFL size and enough speed to occasionally line up at inside linebacker, and in 2026, he could drive another CFP run for the Broncos. -- Connelly
60. Clev Lubin
EDGE, Louisville, senior
2025 notable stats: 8.5 sacks, 13.5 TFLs, 3 FFs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
At 6-3, 260 pounds, Lubin is a bit undersized for a top-tier edge rusher. Try telling that to the O-linemen tasked with blocking him. His speed and technique set him apart, making him one of the most productive and disruptive forces in the ACC. He finished last season with 8.5 sacks, 13.5 TFLs, seven QB hurries, five PBUs and three forced fumbles. He'll be the engine of Louisville's defense this year as the Cards eye a playoff bid. -- Hale
59. Duce Robinson
WR, Florida State, senior
2025 notable stats: 56 catches, 1,081 yards, 6 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
At 6-6, 230 pounds, Robinson is as inviting a target as there is in the ACC, and he showed off his skills repeatedly last year, topping 1,000 yards and finishing ninth nationally in receiving yards per game. His bigger issue is he hauled in just 57% of his targets, and while he was credited with just three drops, he caught only 4-of-14 targets in the red zone. If he can get his hands to match the rest of his physical tools in 2026, he'll be in the All-America discussion. -- Hale
58. LJ Martin
RB, BYU, senior
2025 notable stats: 236 carries, 1,305 yards, 12 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 69
Martin could have tested his luck in the NFL draft after being named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2025 but opted to return for a final season in Provo. He rushed for 1,305 yards with 12 touchdowns and averaged 5.5 yards per carry a year ago, and with 2,541 career rushing yards, he could make a run at the 4,000-yard mark by the end of the season. -- Bonagura
57. Austin Siereveld
OL, Ohio State, junior
2025 notable stat: 0 sacks allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
The Buckeyes regain their starting left tackle and captain in Siereveld, who played 810 snaps on the line last fall and graded out well both as a pass blocker and run blocker. According to Pro Football Focus, Siereveld allowed only 15 pressures, including two quarterback hits, and no sacks last fall. He has started 21 games over the past two seasons. -- Rittenberg
56. Drew Bobo
OL, Georgia, senior
2025 notable stat: 6 QB pressures allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Bobo is one of Stockton's best friends off the field, and he was one of the quarterback's most reliable protectors in his first season as the Bulldogs' starting center in 2025. In 376 pass-blocking snaps, Bobo didn't allow a single sack or quarterback hit, according to Pro Football Focus. His 71.6 run-blocking grade was fourth-highest among centers on Power 4 teams. Bobo, whose father, Mike, is Georgia's offensive coordinator, missed the final two games of 2025 with a left foot injury. -- Schlabach
55. Josh Hoover
QB, Indiana, senior
2025 notable stats: 3,472 passing yards, 29 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Hoover is one of the biggest X-factors in all of college football. He has the experience (31 career starts), past production (almost 10,000 career passing yards) and talent to give Indiana a legitimate chance to defend its national championship. Yet for that to happen, he must cut down on his mistakes (42 career turnovers and 42 sacks). Playing with an elite receiver corps and offensive line should help. -- Trotter
54. Trevor Lauck
OL, Iowa, senior
2025 notable stat: 6 QB pressures allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
In his first season starting last year, Lauck was an honorable-mention All-Big Ten selection for a unit that won the Joe Moore Award as the nation's best offensive line. Among Big Ten offensive tackles, Lauck allowed the second-lowest pressure rate (2.1%), trailing only Indiana's Carter Smith (2.0%). Lauck surrendered only six pressures all season. He'll be one of the anchors of the line with Gennings Dunker, Beau Stephens and Logan Jones all now in the NFL. -- Trotter
53. Nick Marsh
WR, Indiana, junior
2025 notable stats: 59 receptions, 662 yards, 6 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Marsh was the biggest prize in Indiana's post-championship portal haul, ranked as ESPN's No. 13 transfer in the cycle. He had 100 receptions for 1,311 yards and nine touchdowns in two seasons at Michigan State, while setting team true freshman receiving records and reaching 75 receiving yards in eight games during his time with the Spartans. He had multiple receptions in each of his final 22 games at MSU. -- Rittenberg
52. Kelley Jones
CB, Mississippi State, junior
2025 notable stats: 20 solo tackles, 2 INTs, 11 PDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
In a conference full of lanky and talented cornerbacks, Jones might be the best. The 6-4, 195-pound junior created a menacing presence for opposing receivers, allowing just seven completions in 40 targets in primary coverage. He allowed just a 7.0 QBR, picked off two passes and broke up 11 more. He's a constant threat in press coverage. -- Connelly
51. Anthonie Knapp
OL, Notre Dame, junior
2025 notable stat: 2 sacks allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
A popular choice on just about every preseason All-America team, Knapp has started every game he has played at Notre Dame -- 27 in two years at left tackle. But this season presents a new opportunity as Knapp has moved inside to left guard as the Irish reconfigured their front following the departure of multiple starters. Of the move, Knapp said in the spring, "I'll do whatever it takes to be the best I can be." -- Adelson
50. David Stone
DL, Oklahoma, junior
2025 notable stats: 42 total tackles, 8 TFLs, 1.5 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Stone was a part of a deep and talented defensive line last year, but now it's his turn to become a starter and lead as one of the team captains. Stone played in 13 games last year with two starts, but he made the most of his opportunities -- leading all defensive tackles on the team with 42. Now, as a full-time starter, Stone is expected to have an even bigger impact on a unit that has vastly improved under Brent Venables. -- Adelson
49. Trey'Dez Green
TE, LSU, junior
2025 notable stats: 33 receptions, 433 yards, 7 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
An elite red zone target and a major target at 6-7, 237 pounds, Green was a bright spot for a struggling LSU offense in 2025. He caught seven red-zone touchdowns, but he was also second on the team with six catches of over 20 yards. He could benefit significantly from the overall upgrades Lane Kiffin and offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. are attempting to bring to Baton Rouge. -- Connelly
48. Iapani Laloulu
OL, Oregon, senior
2025 notable stat: 3 QB pressures allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Everyone knows him by "Poncho", and the junior has become the cornerstone of the Oregon offensive line over the past two seasons. After spending time at right guard two years ago for two games, Laloulu needed to swap over to center and everything clicked. He has since started 27 games at the position and keyed in a unit that has been one of the more consistent in the country. -- Uggetti
47. Hollywood Smothers
RB, Texas, junior
2025 notable stats: 160 carries, 939 yards, 6 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
One of the most physical backs in the country, Smothers joins the Texas dream team stable from NC State, where he rushed for 1,510 yards -- 1,079 after contact -- in two seasons. His production waned over the course of 2025, but sharing a backfield with fellow transfer Raleek Brown in Austin could keep him fresh and maximize the potentially extreme physicality of the Texas run game. -- Connelly
46. Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele
QB, Cal, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 3,454 passing yards, 22 total TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
It took roughly one start -- a three-TD performance vs. Oregon State -- before pundits started speculating about when Sagapolutele would leave Cal for a big payday. It's understandable. His talent is off the charts, and Cal hasn't routinely played top-tier football. But after a coaching change, Sagapolutele opted to stay put, and he has Cal fans thinking big for 2026 as a result. As a true freshman last year, he had 56 completions of 20 yards or more (sixth in FBS) and 10 go-ahead TD passes (fourth). He did that with one of the worst run games in the country. His ceiling might be as high as anyone on this list. -- Hale
45. Rolijah Hardy
LB, Indiana, junior
2025 notable stats: 103 total tackles, 8 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Hardy didn't get the most attention on Indiana's star-studded defense in 2025, but he put up glitzy numbers and should be among the nation's top linebackers again this fall. He led IU in both tackles (103) and sacks (8), while ranking third in tackles for loss (15). The second-team All-Big Ten selection had 13 tackles and a sack in IU's regular-season win at Oregon and had six or more tackles in 10 of the final 11 contests. -- Rittenberg
44. Rasheem Biles
LB, Texas, senior
2025 notable stats: 101 total tackles, 17 TFLs, 4.5 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: 82
The Pitt transfer was one of the best defensive players in the ACC last year and did a little bit of everything for the Panthers from his linebacker spot. Not only did he rack up the tackles, he broke up six passes -- including two interceptions returned for a touchdown -- and forced two fumbles in 10 starts. He was brought into Texas to make the same impact on a linebacker group that needs it. -- Adelson
43. Cayden Green
OL, Missouri, senior
2025 notable stat: 2 sacks allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Green moved from left guard to left tackle two weeks before the 2025 season, started and did not skip a beat, becoming one of the best offensive linemen in the country. In 11 starts, Green helped pave the way for one of the best rushing offenses in the country, while allowing just two sacks, three quarterback hurries and two quarterback hits on the season. His 89.1 pass blocking grade ranked No. 4 among all tackles last year. -- Adelson
42. Chris Cole
LB, Georgia, junior
2025 notable stats: 35 solo tackles, 7 TFL, 2 PBUs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
The Bulldogs are hoping that Cole makes a third-year jump like former star linebackers Roquan Smith, Nakobe Dean and Jalon Walker, and each of them captured the Butkus Award in their final college season. At 6-3, 235 pounds, Cole has a similar skillset and ceiling. Last season, he made 59 tackles to go with 4.5 sacks and 21 pressures with just one start. The Bulldogs had only 20 sacks last season, which ranked last in the SEC, and Cole might be a big reason that changes this year. -- Schlabach
41. Whit Weeks
LB, LSU, senior
2025 notable stats: 28 total tackles, 1 sack
2025 postseason ranking: NR
The unquestioned leader of the LSU defense, Weeks plays with an impressiveness -- and a flair -- that is hard to beat. Weeks played through an ankle injury for parts of last year and ended up missing five games, something that has fueled his motivation headed into this season. When he is healthy, he is something else to watch -- as evidenced by his sophomore year in which he had 125 total tackles. -- Adelson
40. Kade Pieper
OL, Iowa, senior
2025 notable stat: 0 sacks allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
With Pieper manning right guard, the Hawkeyes ranked fourth in the Big Ten averaging 177 rushing yards per game. Pieper also allowed just five quarterback pressures in 322 pass-blocking attempts. He and left tackle Lauck will be the linchpin of an Iowa offensive line that is debuting three new starters. -- Trotter
39. Sammy Brown
LB, Clemson, junior
2025 notable stats: 106 total tackles, 13.5 TFLs, 5 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: 90
Brown arrived at Clemson as a five-star recruit with lofty expectations. He showed flashes as a freshman, but it was as a sophomore in 2025 that he blossomed. Brown racked up 106 tackles, the second-most in the ACC, with 13.5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 6 QB hurries, 5 pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble. And for the year, he missed just seven tackles. -- Hale
38. Ty Benefield
S, LSU, senior
2025 notable stats: 105 total tackles, 2 INTs, 1 FF
2025 postseason ranking: NR
While offensive transfers have drawn most of the on-field headlines for LSU in 2026, a new defender is poised to be a star. Benefield comes to Baton Rouge from Boise State, where he was a two-year starter, a three-year contributor and racked up 220 career tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss (nine in 2025), 18 run stops (12 in 2025), five interceptions and 11 pass breakups. He can lineup deep or in the slot, and he has even recorded three sacks and 10 pressures in 45 career pass rushes. -- Connelly
37. Sam Leavitt
QB, LSU, junior
2025 notable stats: 1,628 passing yards, 10 TDs, 65.8 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Leavitt had a breakout year in 2024, leading Arizona State to the College Football Playoff, before a foot injury in October 2025 derailed his season. Now he is at LSU, playing under Kiffin, trying to help perhaps the most notorious coach in college football win right away in Baton Rouge. Leavitt is fully recovered from the foot injury and has plenty of talented receivers to help him get the job done and an offensive system that allows quarterbacks to thrive. -- Adelson
36. Bray Hubbard
DB, Alabama, senior
2025 notable stats: 79 total tackles, 4.5 TFLs, 4 INTs
2025 postseason ranking: 73
A stalwart in the Alabama secondary, Hubbard has 21 career starts -- including all 15 games a year ago on the way to first-team All-SEC honors. Hubbard can do it all from his safety position -- with a team-high six pass breakups in 2025, three forced fumbles and one quarterback hurry. He and Keon Sabb are among the best safety duos in the country. -- Adelson
35. Isaac Brown
RB, Louisville, junior
2025 notable stats: 101 carries, 884 yards, 7 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Arguably the most explosive back in college football, Brown is the engine that makes Louisville's offense go. Despite missing four games with a leg injury, he tallied 932 scrimmage yards and seven touchdowns, and his 8.75 yards-per-carry average was the best in the nation -- and more than a yard better than the next closest. Over the past two years, he has rushed for more than 2,000 yards and had 56 carries of 10 yards or more. -- Hale
34. Jordan Seaton
OT, LSU, junior
2025 notable stat: 1 sack allowed
2025 postseason ranking: NR
One of the top transfer portal players in the country, Seaton left Colorado to play for Lane Kiffin at LSU -- immediately upgrading an offensive line that struggled to get its run game going and protect the quarterback in 2025. LSU ranked No. 124 in the country in rush yards (104 per game) and No. 94 in sacks allowed (29). Seaton should upgrade that group immediately. -- Adelson
33. KJ Bolden
DB, Georgia, junior
2025 notable stats: 32 solo tackles, 2.5 TFLs, 5 PBUs
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Bolden was the top safety prospect in the country coming out of Buford High School in Georgia, and he delivered for the Bulldogs in his first two seasons. In 2025, Bolden had 76 tackles and two interceptions in 14 starts. He had the second-highest overall grade among returning safeties, according to PFF. Bolden is projected to potentially be the top safety selected in the 2027 NFL draft, especially if he continues his upward trajectory. -- Schlabach
32. Drew Mestemaker
QB, Oklahoma State, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 4,379 passing yards, 34 TDs, 74.8 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 67
The former walk-on turned FBS passing yards leader became the engine to the nation's top-ranked offense last fall, when Mestemaker also led the nation in first downs (196) and completion of 20-plus yards (67) at North Texas. He had plenty of options in the transfer portal. But after choosing to reunite with coach Eric Morris at Oklahoma State, Mestemaker now holds the keys to one of the nation's most intriguing offenses and, if he can make the jump to power-conference football, perhaps one of the biggest turnarounds across the sport. -- Lederman
31. Gunner Stockton
QB, Georgia, senior
2025 notable stats: 2,894 passing yards, 24 TDs, 84.9 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 64
Stockton won't receive the Heisman Trophy buzz like Chambliss and Manning heading into the 2026 season, but he has been arguably as valuable. In his first season as a starter, Stockton threw for 2,894 yards with 24 touchdowns and five picks, while running for 462 yards with 10 scores. He completed a whopping 73.7% of his attempts for 1,007 yards with 13 touchdowns and one interception vs. AP ranked opponents. Georgia fans want to see Stockton take more shots down the field, so do his coaches, as long as he keeps his turnovers down. -- Schlabach
30. Ahmad Hardy
RB, Missouri, junior
2025 notable stats: 256 carries, 1,649 yards, 16 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 19
Hardy set the Mizzou single-season school record for rushing last year, ranking second in the country in total rushing yards and seventh in the country with 6.4 yards per carry. The Doak Walker Award finalist had seven 100-yard games and forced a whopping 97 missed tackles en route to a career year. The question now is whether Hardy will be the same back after recovering from a gunshot wound to the leg sustained at a concert in May. -- Adelson
29. Mark Fletcher Jr.
RB, Miami, senior
2025 notable stats: 216 carries, 1,192 yards, 14 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 75
By late November, Fletcher's 2025 campaign looked like a bust after nagging injuries forced him to miss two games and limited him in several others. But by the time the playoff began, Fletcher looked like a man on a mission, rushing for 507 yards and finding the end zone three times in the Canes' run to the title game. The biggest question now is how much of a load he'll shoulder in a deep Miami backfield. -- Hale
28. Xavier Atkins
LB, Auburn, junior
2025 notable stats: 84 total tackles, 13.5 TFLs, 9 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: NR
Atkins was a revelation in his first year after transferring from LSU. An ace blitzer, he generated a 25% pressure rate on pass rushes and tied for third in the SEC with nine sacks, and despite an undersized stature (6-0, 210 pounds), he took part in 11 run stops (run tackles at or behind the line) as well. He picked off a pass and broke up another in coverage, too. -- Connelly
27. Brice Pollock
CB, Texas Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 30 solo tackles, 5 INTs, 7 PDs
2025 postseason ranking: 30
Pollock, a Mississippi State transfer, was first-team All-Big 12 after 48 tackles (four for loss) with eight passes broken up in 14 starts. His five interceptions ranked seventh in the FBS and tied for the Big 12 lead. Pollock allowed 35 completions on 69 attempts and did not allow a touchdown pass in 2025. -- Wilson
26. Will Echoles
DT, Ole Miss, junior
2025 notable stats: 32 solo tackles, 11.5 TFLs, 5 PBUs
2025 preseason ranking: 48
Some teams wanted Echoles to play on the interior offensive line coming out of high school, but he has more than proved his worth on defense. Last season, Echoles led defensive tackles from Power 4 teams in quarterback pressures (39) and defensive stops (35), per PFF, and had 68 tackles and five sacks in 15 starts. The 6-3, 315-pound junior might be the first defensive tackle selected in the 2027 NFL draft. -- Schlabach
25. A.J. Holmes Jr.
DL, Texas Tech, senior
2025 notable stats: 19 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks, 1 FF
2025 preseason ranking: NR
Holmes, a Houston transfer, is the Big 12 preseason Defensive Player of the Year after his first season at Tech landed him AP All-American honors despite beginning the season as a backup and starting eight games. Holmes played in all 14 games, with 38 tackles (9 for loss) 4.5 sacks, 7 QB hurries and 4 passes broken up at the line. -- Wilson
24. Brandon Finney Jr.
DB, Oregon, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 3 INTs, 2 FFs, 7 PDs
2025 preseason ranking: NR
Talk about bursting onto the scene. Last season, Finney immediately made his way onto the field as a freshman and did not disappoint. The Maryland native became not just a fixture of the Ducks' secondary as the year progressed, but he also was arguably Oregon's most statistically impactful defender. Forced fumbles, interceptions, sacks, tackles for loss -- you name it, Finney was doing it all. If his sophomore campaign is anything like his debut, he could be well on his way to being one of the best defensive backs in the sport. -- Uggetti
23. Darian Mensah
QB, Miami, junior
2025 notable stats: 3,973 passing yards, 34 TDs, 6 INTs
2025 preseason ranking: 65
Mensah looks to follow in the footsteps of some exceptional Miami one-and-done transfers at the QB position. Cam Ward ended up as the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft and Carson Beck led the Canes to the national championship game last season. Mensah, fresh off a year in which he threw for nearly 4,000 yards and racked up 35 total touchdowns, is aiming even higher. He'll have a better supporting cast than he enjoyed at Tulane or Duke Blue Devils, but after a controversial exit from Durham, the spotlight will be awfully bright, too. -- Hale
22. KJ Duff
WR, Rutgers, junior
2025 notable stats: 60 receptions, 1,084 yards, 7 TDs
2025 preseason ranking: 52
The Scarlet Knights finished fifth in the Big Ten in passing yards (3,193) last year. Duff accounted for a third of that with 1,084 yards to become the first Rutgers player since 2014 to top 1,000 receiving yards in a season. He also led the country with 23 contested catches, while 47 of his 60 receptions went for first downs or touchdowns. At 6-6, 225 pounds, Duff creates matchup problems outside. -- Trotter
21. Tyrique Tucker
DL, Indiana, senior
2025 notable stats: 38 total tackles, 6 sacks
2025 preseason ranking: NR
Most of coach Curt Cignetti's James Madison imports have moved on, but Tucker remains and will be among the leading candidates for the Outland Trophy after a huge 2025 season. A third-team All-America selection, Tucker tied for third nationally in sacks among primary defensive tackles and tied for first in pass-rush sacks created (8). He had 28 total pressures and was consistently part of the rush as well as defending the run. -- Rittenberg
20. John Henry Daley
DE, Michigan, senior
2025 notable stats: 24 solo tackles, 11.5 sacks, 2 FFs
2025 preseason ranking: 43
Daley emerged as one of the nation's top pass rushers at Utah and followed coach Kyle Whittingham and others to Ann Arbor. He piled up 11.5 sacks, 17.5 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles in 11 games before suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon. He still finished second nationally in sacks per game and third in tackles for loss per game. -- Rittenberg
19. Jadan Baugh
RB, Florida, junior
2025 notable stats: 220 carries, 1,170 yards, 10 total TDs
2025 preseason ranking: NR
Baugh made the decision to return to Florida after the Gators fired Billy Napier and hired Jon Sumrall, a decision that should pay massive dividends this year. Baugh has been highly productive in his two years with Florida -- and his ability to make plays out of the backfield is a huge asset (31 catches, 185 yards, 2 receiving TDs last year). Now, with Buster Faulkner calling plays, Baugh should be in line for his best year yet. -- Adelson
18. Ahmad Moten Sr.
DL, Miami, senior
2025 notable stats: 20 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks
2025 preseason ranking: NR
If it was the edge rushers who headlined Miami's dominant defense last year, it was Moten on the inside of the line that did the grunt work. The 300-pounder racked up 31 total tackles -- including nine for a loss -- 4.5 sacks, four QB hurries and was a critical part of a defensive front that allowed just 1.1 yards-per-rush before contact, seventh-best in the Power 4. -- Hale
17. Charlie Becker
WR, Indiana, junior
2025 notable stats: 34 receptions, 679 yards, 4 TDs
2025 preseason ranking: NR
He wasn't among the stars for Indiana's run through the regular season, but then the postseason happened. Becker had six catches for 126 yards against Ohio State in the Big Ten title game, and then piled up 164 receiving yards and two touchdowns during the CFP. He also recorded 100-yard receiving performances against Penn State and Wisconsin, and will team up with transfer Marsh to give quarterback Hoover two viable top receiving options. -- Rittenberg
16. A'Mauri Washington
DL, Oregon, senior
2025 notable stats: 15 solo tackles, 1.5 sacks, 8 PBUs
2025 preseason ranking: 54
Washington is one several experienced players returning to the Oregon defense. The Detroit native is set for his senior season following his best campaign yet in 2025. Last year, Washington was a force on the Ducks' defensive line, starting all 15 games, breaking up passes left and right and pressuring nearly every quarterback Oregon faced last season. -- Uggetti
15. Cam Coleman
WR, Texas, junior
2025 notable stats: 56 receptions, 708 yards, 5 TDs
2025 preseason ranking: NR
Coleman, an Auburn transfer, was the prize of the transfer portal after making 22 starts in 23 games. He caught 56 passes for 708 yards and five touchdowns despite a struggling passing game. Coleman's an explosive and dynamic receiver who made the SEC's All-Freshman team in 2024. -- Wilson
14. Dylan Stewart
DE, South Carolina, junior
2025 notable stats: 19 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks, 3 FFs
2025 preseason ranking: NR
With an explosive first step and a 6-5 frame, Stewart has been a lot for SEC offensive tackles to handle in his first two seasons with the Gamecocks. If he can get stronger and polish his technique, he might become South Carolina's best pass rusher since Jadeveon Clowney. Last season, Stewart had 33 total tackles, 4.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. His 51 quarterback pressures were second-most among returning edge rushers on Power 4 teams, according to PFF. -- Schlabach
13. Arch Manning
QB, Texas, junior
2025 notable stats: 3,163 passing yards, 26 TDs, 78.0 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 58
Perhaps the most polarizing player in the entire country, Manning goes into his second year as a starter with plenty to improve and a lot to prove. After a shaky start in 2025, Manning got better as the season went on, throwing just two interceptions in the final eight games of the season, while leading the Longhorns to wins over Oklahoma and Texas A&M. Still, improving in the short yardage game is an absolute must -- and so is making it back to the CFP -- for both Manning and Texas to live up to the outsized hype. -- Adelson
12. Trevor Goosby
OL, Texas, junior
2025 notable stat: 7 QB pressures allowed
2025 preseason ranking: NR
The 6-7, 325-pound left tackle is a preseason All-American for a reason after a standout season in 2025 -- in which he started all 13 games and helped protect Manning's blind side. Texas returns an experienced, veteran offensive line this year with the opportunity to help the Longhorns establish the run more consistently and keep Manning from getting hit as much as he did a year ago. -- Adelson
11. Dante Moore
QB, Oregon, junior
2025 notable stats: 3,565 passing yards, 30 TDs, 78.5 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 24
The fact that Oregon returns not only its starting quarterback, but the starting quarterback that could have been the No. 1 overall draft pick in the NFL draft, is something not any other team in FBS can boast. Moore is coming off a stellar season that, lest we forget, was his first playing in the Ducks' offensive system. Yet Moore looked comfortable -- that is, until he played Indiana, which handed Oregon its only two losses -- and that should only improve as he and Oregon attempt to get over the hump and attempt to secure the program's first national championship. -- Uggetti
10. Carter Smith
OT, Indiana, senior
2025 notable stat: 9 QB pressures allowed
2025 postseason ranking: 18
The first Indiana player to win Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year honors is back to anchor a front that once again projects as a major strength. He has started 41 consecutive games at left tackle, earning second-team AP All-America honors in 2025 and helping Indiana's line become a finalist for the Joe Moore Award. Moore is the first IU offensive lineman to earn first-team All-Big Ten since Don Schrader in 1987. -- Rittenberg
9. Jayden Maiava
QB, USC, senior
2025 notable stats: 3,711 passing yards, 24 TDs, 89.9 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 56
The 22-year-old from Honolulu does not fit neatly into the mold of USC quarterbacks in the past, yet he is undeniably one of the top players in the sport and has a chance to be a real Heisman contender should the Trojans' season take off. Maiava's ability to excel in different kinds of games was displayed last season. He was capable of throwing for over 400 yards and four touchdowns but could also throw for less than 200 yards, add 62 rushing yards and a score with his feet. -- Uggetti
8. Julian Sayin
QB, Ohio State, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 3,610 yards, 32 TDs, 88.4 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 23
In his first season starting, Sayin completed 77.0% of his throws, nearly breaking Bo Nix's FBS record (77.4%). Though Ohio State's offense bogged down in the postseason, the California native displayed a cool confidence for much of the year, highlighted by his three-touchdown performance in a 27-9 win at Michigan in the snow. A Heisman finalist last year, Sayin has the ability and surrounding talent to become Ohio State's first Heisman winner in two decades. -- Trotter
7. CJ Carr
QB, Notre Dame, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 2,741 passing yards, 24 TDs, 83.4 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 53
Carr looked like a veteran last season in his first year as a starter. His 24 touchdown passes were tied for the most passing touchdowns in a players' first 12 career starts at Notre Dame since 1966. His performance, growth and potential headed into this season is one of the biggest reasons the Irish are a preseason choice to make it to the CFP after coming up short in 2025. -- Adelson
6. Kewan Lacy
RB, Ole Miss, junior
2025 notable stats: 306 carries, 1,567 yards, 24 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 20
As good as Chambliss was while leading the Rebels last season, Lacy was equally important in their surprising run to the CFP semifinals. He ranked third in the FBS with 1,567 yards and second with 24 rushing touchdowns. Lacy's goals for 2026 are even bigger: He wants to become the SEC's first 2,000-yard rusher since Alabama's Derrick Henry had 2,219 yards in 2015. No wonder the Rebels worked extra hard to keep him away from LSU and former coach Kiffin. -- Schlabach
5. Trinidad Chambliss
QB, Ole Miss, senior
2025 notable stats: 3,937 passing yards, 30 total TDs, 86.5 QBR
2025 postseason ranking: 7
Chambliss took the SEC by storm in his first season with the Rebels, throwing for 3,937 yards with 30 total touchdowns in 2025. A former Division II star at Ferris State, Chambliss had to win a court order to get a sixth year in college football. He should be even more comfortable in his second season leading the Rebels. His 29 big-time throws ranked fourth among Power 4 players last season, according to PFF, and he was second in passing grade against pressure. -- Schlabach
4. Malachi Toney
WR, Miami, sophomore
2025 notable stats: 109 receptions, 1,211 yards, 13 total TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 26
In 2025, Toney put together a freshman season as good as any in recent history. He was a key component to Miami's receiving corps, catching an FBS-best 109 passes while leading the Canes to the College Football Playoff national championship game. In the playoff alone, he accounted for 25 catches, 231 yards and three touchdowns. He had five 100-yard games, had multiple catches in every game last season, rushed for a touchdown and threw for two more, and also finished second in the ACC in punt return yardage. -- Hale
3. Colin Simmons
EDGE, Texas, junior
2025 notable stats: 43 total tackles, 15.5 TFLs, 12 sacks
2025 postseason ranking: 31
Simmons established himself as one of the best pass rushers in the country as a sophomore last season, leading the SEC with 12 sacks -- including a sack in each of the final five games to close out the season. A preseason All-America candidate, Simmons has played in 29 career games and has the experience and ability to lead a strong defensive front with big plans to help get the Longhorns back to the CFP. -- Adelson
2. Leonard Moore
CB, Notre Dame, junior
2025 notable stats: 31 total tackles, 7 PBUs, 5 INTs
2025 postseason ranking: 15
Arguably the best cornerback in the country, Moore enters the season on every preseason player of the year watch list after a standout 2025 in which he earned unanimous All-American honors and was a finalist for the Jim Thorpe and Bronko Nagurski awards. Last season, he allowed 12 completions on 33 targets for 135 yards. -- Adelson
1. Jeremiah Smith
WR, Ohio State, junior
2025 notable stats: 87 receptions, 1,243 yards, 12 TDs
2025 postseason ranking: 8
Over his first two years, Smith has put up 163 receptions for 2,258 yards and 27 touchdowns. During Big Ten media days, he said his primary goals for what is sure to be his final season in Columbus are to win a second national title, earn his first Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver and go to New York as a Heisman finalist. All three are attainable for the Ohio State mega-talent. -- Trotter
