The 2026 college football recruiting landscape is getting wild as top programs scramble to lock down the best high school talent. With ESPN’s updated 300 rankings, schools like USC, Georgia, and Texas A&M are making big moves for elite recruits.
Let’s take a look at the latest in the recruiting world, from the top classes to standout prospects. Coaching changes are shaking up team rankings too—it’s all pretty fascinating.
USC’s Recruiting Momentum Under Lincoln Riley
USC has jumped out as the leader in the 2026 recruiting class rankings. Lincoln Riley, along with new general manager Chad Bowden from Notre Dame, has brought in an impressive group of players.
Top Offensive and Defensive Prospects
Two five-star recruits headline USC’s class: offensive tackle Keenyi Pepe and cornerback Elbert Hill. Pepe stands 6-foot-7 and weighs 320 pounds, giving the Trojans serious size and agility up front.
Hill is all about speed—he could really shake up the secondary. It’s hard not to get excited about what these guys might do.
Key Additions and Flips
USC managed to flip some big names from rival schools. Defensive lineman Tomuhini Topui and quarterback Jonas Williams, both four-stars, switched over from Oregon.
They’ve also beefed up the defensive line with Jaimeon Winfield from Texas and in-state end Simote Katoanga. The roster’s looking deeper than it has in years.
Georgia’s Consistent Excellence Under Kirby Smart
Georgia keeps proving it’s a recruiting powerhouse. Kirby Smart’s program always seems to be in the top three, and this year is no different.
Offensive Firepower
Five-star quarterback Jared Curtis leads Georgia’s 2026 class. Curtis, with his smooth release and strong arm, recommitted to the Bulldogs after briefly stepping away.
The Bulldogs are adding speed at receiver too, with Brady Marchese and Kaiden Prothro showing off some impressive in-game numbers.
Defensive Reinforcements
Georgia’s defense gets even scarier with the addition of cornerbacks Justice Fitzpatrick and Zechariah Fort. Fitzpatrick, the younger brother of Minkah Fitzpatrick, brings size and speed—he could have an immediate impact.
Texas A&M’s Strategic Recruitment
Mike Elko has Texas A&M making waves in recruiting circles. The Aggies are pulling top players from Georgia, Florida, California, and beyond.
Top Prospects and Key Positions
Brandon Arrington, the nation’s top-ranked athlete, is projected to play cornerback and leads the Aggies’ class. On the defensive line, they’ve landed Jordan Carter and Bryce Perry-Wright from Georgia, plus Jermaine Kinsler from New Jersey.
Offensive Additions
Texas A&M isn’t ignoring offense either. They’ve added dynamic running backs K.J. Edwards and Jonathan Hatton.
Edwards, in particular, has put up over 1,700 rushing yards in each of the last two high school seasons. That’s some serious production.
Notre Dame’s Balanced Approach
Notre Dame’s 2026 class started slow but picked up speed with some key additions. They’re focusing on both offense and defense, aiming to stay competitive at the top.
Defensive Strength
Rodney Dunham, a quick edge rusher, and Khary Adams, a top cornerback, headline the defense. Adams stands 6-foot-2 with legit speed—he’s expected to be a difference-maker in the secondary.
Offensive Line Focus
Notre Dame keeps building its offensive line reputation. Gregory Patrick and Tyler Merrill add size, power, and a physical edge the Irish love up front.
Texas’ High-Profile Recruits
Texas is grabbing attention, especially with its quarterback signings. The Longhorns landed another five-star QB, Dia Bell, following in Arch Manning’s footsteps.
Offensive Weapons
They’ve also added ESPN 300 receivers Chris Stewart and Jermaine Bishop Jr. Stewart brings big-play speed, while Bishop’s a fluid target who gets yards after the catch.
Defensive Line Additions
On defense, Texas addressed its needs by landing top linemen Richard Wesley and Dylan Berymon. These guys bring power and versatility to the front.
Oregon’s Continued Success
Oregon, led by Dan Lanning, keeps rolling in recruiting. They’ve nabbed five-star tight end Kendre’ Harrison and strengthened both lines.
Defensive and Offensive Line Strength
Tony Cumberland and Dutch Horisk bolster the defensive line, while five-star Immanuel Iheanacho leads the offensive front. These players could be future cornerstones for the Ducks.
Versatile Recruits
The Ducks also picked up versatile athletes like Jett Washington, a five-star safety, and Xavier Lherisse, a four-star defensive back. Their speed and ball skills should boost Oregon’s secondary.
Tennessee’s In-State Success
Tennessee is locking down its best in-state talent, with five-star quarterback Faizon Brandon leading the way. The Volunteers are also adding key defensive pieces.
Offensive and Defensive Additions
Brandon’s joined by in-state receiver Tyreek King and versatile athlete Joel Wyatt. On defense, Tennessee brought in DE Zach Groves and DT Dereon Albert—both bring a mix of power and quickness.
Alabama’s Late Surge
Alabama’s class picked up steam in June, landing top talent from Georgia and elsewhere. Running back Ezavier Crowell and safety Jireh Edwards headline the group.
Defensive Talent
Jamarion Matthews and Xavier Griffin, both from Georgia, add size and speed to Alabama’s defensive front. They’re versatile, and that’s always handy for the Crimson Tide.
Offensive Firepower
On offense, Alabama secured Ezavier Crowell, a top running back known for power and vision. They’ve also added talented receivers and offensive linemen to round things out.
Ohio State’s Star Power
Ohio State’s 2026 class is anchored by five-star receiver Chris Henry Jr., who brings a rare mix of length and quickness. The Buckeyes have also added some serious defensive talent.
Defensive Reinforcements
Blaine Bradford, a top safety, and linebacker Simeon Caldwell are key additions. They’re expected to make big contributions to Ohio State’s defense.
Offensive Line Strength
Maxwell Riley, a physical and aggressive tackle, boosts the offensive line. Protecting the Buckeyes’ quarterbacks is going to be his main job.
Michigan’s Balanced Class
Michigan’s 2026 class is all about balance, with important additions on both sides of the ball. The Wolverines are bringing in the kind of talent that keeps them in the mix.
Offensive Playmakers
Running back Savion Hiter and quarterback Brady Smigiel headline the offense. Hiter’s size and speed could make him a real standout in the backfield.
Defensive Line Additions
On defense, Michigan added Carter Meadows and Titan Davis to the line. These guys bring power and versatility—something every coach wants up front.
Miami’s Rising Prospects
Miami is quietly building a strong 2026 class, especially on the lines. The Hurricanes seem determined to lay the groundwork for future success.
Offensive Line Focus
They’ve secured Jackson Cantwell, the top-rated offensive tackle, who brings both size and quickness. Miami’s commitment to building a dominant offensive line is pretty clear right now.
Defensive Talent
Miami went out and grabbed some key defensive players, like Jordan Campbell. He brings a lot of versatility and some serious power to the Hurricanes’ defense.
These recruits could end up playing a huge role in Miami’s defensive schemes down the line. It’s tough to say for sure, but the potential is obvious.
If you want a deeper dive into the latest 2026 college football recruiting class rankings, check out ESPN’s comprehensive coverage.
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