The 2026 college football season looks like it could be a wild one. We’ve got veteran quarterbacks returning and a bunch of new faces eager to make a splash.
Bill Connelly’s 40 most important players for the year gives a pretty solid snapshot of the athletes who could shape the season. With breakout stars, transfers, and plenty of returning talent, this year might just be unforgettable.
Experienced Quarterbacks Lead the Charge
One thing that jumps out about 2026 is how many top schools have experienced quarterbacks. Ohio State’s Julian Sayin, Texas’ Arch Manning, Oregon’s Dante Moore, Notre Dame’s CJ Carr, and Georgia’s Gunner Stockton all return with at least a year of starting under their belts.
These guys bring a sense of calm and leadership to their teams. That alone could make them tough to beat in the race for the national title.
Ohio State’s Julian Sayin
Julian Sayin finished last season in the top ten for Total QBR. Now he’s back, ready to guide Ohio State and keep the Buckeyes in the hunt.
With his experience, you’d expect him to have a real shot at another strong year.
Texas’ Arch Manning
Arch Manning led the nation in Total QBR from November on last season. He mixes in just enough running to keep defenses guessing, and his fundamentals have gotten sharper.
He’s definitely someone to watch—his game feels like it’s on the verge of something special.
Breakthrough Candidates
It’s not just the established stars, though. A handful of players look ready to break out in a big way.
Some of these guys could be the reason their teams surprise everyone.
Alabama’s Keelon Russell
Keelon Russell, one of the top prospects in 2025, spent a redshirt year watching Ty Simpson and learning the ropes. Now, he’s set to compete for the starting job at Alabama.
He hasn’t officially won the job yet, but his upside is huge. If things click, Alabama’s offense could take off.
Indiana’s Josh Hoover
Josh Hoover steps in at Indiana after racking up 9,629 career passing yards and 19 wins. He’s following Fernando Mendoza’s impressive run last season, so expectations are high.
Hoover’s got a live arm and doesn’t take many sacks, which should help Indiana stay competitive.
Key Transfers
The transfer portal keeps shaking things up. This year, a few big-name transfers might change the entire landscape.
These players arrive with experience and talent, ready to make a mark at their new schools.
Miami’s Darian Mensah
Darian Mensah’s move from Duke to Miami stirred up plenty of talk. With Malachi Toney and Cooper Barkate around him, Mensah’s knack for big plays could give Miami a real boost.
He’s efficient, too—maybe Miami finally turns the corner with him at the helm.
Texas Tech’s Will Hammond
Will Hammond stepped in for an injured Behren Morton last season. Now, he’s rushing back from an ACL injury, hoping to lead Texas Tech.
His scrambling and efficiency will be key if Tech wants to stay in the mix.
Star Turns
Some players are just waiting to break out and push their teams into the spotlight. They’ve shown flashes, and this could be their year to put it all together.
Oregon’s Dante Moore
Dante Moore chose to stay at Oregon, even though he could’ve been a top draft pick. With a more stable group of receivers, he’s focused on stepping up against tough defenses.
He’s got the arm—now it’s about consistency in the big moments.
Oklahoma’s John Mateer
John Mateer plays with guts and isn’t afraid to take risks. If he can rein in the wildness just a bit, Oklahoma could be a real threat.
There’s something electric about his style, even if it’s a little unpredictable.
Important Transfers
Transfers can bring fresh energy and sometimes just the right spark. This season, a few standouts could help their new teams reach another level.
Texas A&M’s Marcel Reed
Marcel Reed is all about big plays and can really move with the ball. If he cleans up the mistakes, Texas A&M might find themselves in the playoff race again.
Washington’s Demond Williams Jr.
Demond Williams Jr. had a thrilling first season as Washington’s starter. He’s shown he can make big plays, but he’ll need to step up against the tougher defenses.
If he does, Washington could surprise some folks.
New Pass Catchers and Pass Rushers
Teams are counting on new receivers and pass rushers to step up this year. Some of these guys could change the whole vibe for their squads.
Alabama’s Ryan Coleman-Williams
Ryan Coleman-Williams needs to cut down on drops and get back to his early form. If he does, he’ll make life much easier for Keelon Russell.
A confident, dynamic No. 1 receiver could make all the difference for Alabama.
Ohio State’s Brandon Inniss
Brandon Inniss brings reliable hands and could start making bigger plays soon. If he settles in as a dangerous No. 2 wideout, Jeremiah Smith might even make a run at the Heisman.
Conclusion
The 2026 college football season looks like it could be a wild ride. There are seasoned quarterbacks coming back, new faces making noise, and a handful of transfers who might just shake things up.
Keep an eye on the fresh pass catchers and those relentless pass rushers, too. You never really know who’ll steal the spotlight or turn a game upside down.
If you’re curious about the players who might define this season, Bill Connelly’s got a rundown worth checking out: 40 most important players for 2026. It’s a solid place to start if you want to get ahead of the hype.
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