{"id":1023180,"date":"2026-08-25T13:40:17","date_gmt":"2026-08-25T13:40:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/1023180\/"},"modified":"2026-08-25T13:40:17","modified_gmt":"2026-08-25T13:40:17","slug":"jeremiah-smith-leonard-moore-lead-list-of-college-footballs-top-100-players-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/1023180\/","title":{"rendered":"Jeremiah Smith, Leonard Moore lead list of college football\u2019s top 100 players in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

Throughout the long college football offseason, we rank a lot of things. Teams<\/a>. Coaches<\/a>. Quarterbacks<\/a>. Transfers<\/a>. Freaks<\/a>. But there\u2019s always room for more.<\/p>\n

Today, The Athletic ranks the top 100 players in college football.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a fun, yet difficult task that has no true correct answers. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Our goal was to rank the players based on their abilities, their past production and the impact they project to have on their teams in 2026. It is not an NFL Draft ranking; we evaluated them as college football players, though the physical traits that make them attractive to pro teams are factored in. We also took into account feedback from coaches, general managers and scouts we\u2019ve spoken to throughout the offseason.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s get to it.<\/p>\n

Note: Snap counts, off-target rate, contested catches, drops and drop rates, sacks allowed, pressures, pass rush win rate, missed tackle rate, forced incompletion rate, yards per reception allowed, allowed completion rate and NFL passer rating against are from Pro Football Focus. Reception rates are from TruMedia.<\/p>\n

No. 1: Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State<\/p>\n

As a receiver, Smith has it all<\/a>. He\u2019s big (6-foot-3, 224 pounds), freakishly athletic (38.5-inch vertical, 23.5 miles per hour on the GPS, according to Bruce Feldman\u2019s Freaks List<\/a>), and most importantly, he\u2019s elite on the field. Whenever the ball comes in Smith\u2019s direction, you can bet he\u2019s coming down with it \u2014 no receiver with at least 100 targets last year caught a larger share of them (80.6 percent). He had just two drops and the third-lowest rate among receivers with triple-digit targets. Despite getting the lion\u2019s share of attention from opposing secondaries, he still led the Big Ten in catches (87) and receiving yards (1,243) and was third in touchdown catches (12). He makes difficult plays look effortless.<\/p>\n

No. 2: Leonard Moore, CB, Notre Dame<\/p>\n

Moore, a 2025 Thorpe Award finalist, enters 2026 as college football\u2019s best defensive player and has all the desired traits of an elite cornerback. He has good size and length, is sticky in coverage, anticipates well and has terrific ball skills. The junior ranked in the top 10 among Power 4 corners in interceptions (five), fewest yards allowed per reception (7.7), forced incompletion rate (21 percent) and NFL passer rating against (45.9).<\/p>\n

No. 3: Trinidad Chambliss, QB, Ole Miss<\/p>\n

Chambliss, who ranked No. 1 in The Athletic\u2019s College QB Tiers<\/a>, went from Division II national champion at Ferris State to College Football Playoff semifinalist in his first year at Ole Miss. Though he lacks elite size (6-0, 205), the sixth-year senior is accurate, poised and dynamic when escaping the pocket \u2014 just ask Georgia. Chambliss threw for 3,937 yards, 22 touchdowns, three interceptions and rushed for 527 yards and eight more scores last season.<\/p>\n

No. 4: Colin Simmons, edge, Texas<\/p>\n

Simmons is synonymous with speed and has been a menace to opposing backfields since arriving in 2024. The junior led the SEC with 12 sacks last year, and his 93 combined pressures against Power 4 opponents the last two seasons are more than any returning edge rusher in the country.<\/p>\n

No. 5: Malachi Toney, WR, Miami<\/p>\n

You don\u2019t get a nickname like \u201cBaby Jesus<\/a>\u201d without being that dude, and Toney \u2014 who\u2019s 5-11, 192 \u2014 might be the best pound-for-pound player in the game. He\u2019s an elite receiver (he led the nation in receptions with 109, for 1,211 yards and 10 scores as a true freshman), was the team\u2019s primary punt returner (he was 17th nationally in yards per return), is smart, fast, tough and is a ferocious blocker. \u201cHe\u2019s like Spider-Man,\u201d Miami coach Mario Cristobal said of the sophomore this spring.<\/p>\n

Bruce Feldman’s 2026 Freaks List<\/p>\n

Bruce Feldman<\/p>\n

No. 6: Dante Moore, QB, Oregon<\/p>\n

Moore, the second-ranked passer in College QB Tiers<\/a>, could have been a high draft pick in April but chose to return for one more year with the Ducks. The fourth-year player ranked fourth nationally in completion percentage (71.8) and threw for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns with only 10 interceptions. Coaches and staffers have called Moore \u201cphenomenal,\u201d \u201celectric,\u201d and \u201cfranchise-quarterback good.\u201d<\/p>\n

No. 7: Dylan Stewart, edge, South Carolina<\/p>\n

Stewart, a junior, has freaky athletic ability<\/a> at 6-5, 250. He has tremendous closing speed and twitch and more power than one might expect from his leaner-looking frame. A nagging back injury last season kept his snap count well below that of other top edge rushers, but he was still plenty productive with 37 pressures and 12 tackles for loss. His combined 88 pressures over the last two seasons are the second-most, behind Simmons, among returning edge rushers who played in the Power 4 both seasons.<\/p>\n

No. 8: Carter Smith, OT, Indiana<\/p>\n

Getting Smith, a 2025 consensus All-American, back for one more year was a huge boost for the Hoosiers. He has a ton of experience \u2014 41 consecutive starts at left tackle dating back to 2023 \u2014 and allowed only nine pressures in 483 pass-blocking snaps last year. He didn\u2019t allow a sack until the 16th game of the 2025 season, when NFL Draft picks Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor each notched one in the title game against him. Smith is strong, smart, consistent, reliable and moves well both in pass protection and as a run blocker.<\/p>\n

No. 9: CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame<\/p>\n

Carr impressed in his starting debut as a redshirt freshman in 2025. He displayed plenty of arm talent, accuracy and poise while throwing for 2,741 yards, 24 touchdowns and six interceptions for the 10-2 Fighting Irish. The ball jumped out of Carr\u2019s hands, and he showed maturity beyond his years in his grasp and control of Notre Dame\u2019s offense. \u201cOne of the best in the country,\u201d a Power 4 general manager said. \u201cI think he\u2019s a stud.\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

As I said, CJ Carr is a DUDE! <\/p>\n

pic.twitter.com\/5st9SBfxyr<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 LandonTengwall (@LandonTengwall) September 20, 2025<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No. 10: Cam Coleman, WR, Texas<\/p>\n

Coleman\u2019s 2025 statistics (56 catches, 708 yards, five TDs) weren\u2019t jaw-dropping at Auburn, but quarterback play had a lot to do with that; the Tigers were second-to-last in the SEC in passing yards per game and passer rating and third-to-last in completion percentage while playing three QBs in 2025. Coleman\u2019s ability is unquestionable. The junior is big, fast, quick, can separate vertically and can win jump balls. He was the top-ranked player in the transfer portal<\/a> and should excel with a better offensive infrastructure at Texas. \u201cHe\u2019s a freaking monster,\u201d a Power 4 personnel director said.<\/p>\n

No. 11: Darian Mensah, QB, Miami<\/p>\n

Mensah is the latest in a line of transfer quarterbacks Miami has signed to keep the Hurricanes in the CFP mix. He guided Tulane to a conference title game in 2024 and won an ACC championship at Duke last year. Only two returning Power 4 QBs have thrown for more yards the last two seasons than Mensah (6,696). \u201cBest QB in the ACC, hands down,\u201d a P4 general manager said.<\/p>\n

No. 12: KJ Bolden, S, Georgia<\/p>\n

Bolden is a model of versatility for the Bulldogs, taking significant snaps at safety, in the slot and in the box while also playing on multiple phases of special teams \u2014 and doing it all with speed and aggression. He\u2019s a terrific and willing open-field tackler and has the instincts and athleticism to seemingly always be in the right place at the right time. He finished with 76 tackles, two interceptions, five pass breakups and one blocked punt in 2025.<\/p>\n

No. 13: Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State<\/p>\n

Sayin finished fourth in the 2025 Heisman Trophy voting after a stellar debut season as the full-time starter. He led the country in completion rate (77 percent), threw for 3,610 yards, 32 touchdowns and eight interceptions while guiding Ohio State to the CFP. Now he looks to take the next step entering his third year on campus. \u201cHe manages the game well, gets the ball where it\u2019s supposed to go,\u201d a Power 4 offensive coordinator said of Sayin. \u201cHe did a good job of that for a young kid last year.\u201d<\/p>\n

No. 14: Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU<\/p>\n

Seaton, a junior, moves well for someone with his size (6-5, 330 at Colorado, though he\u2019s trimmed down to 307 according to his updated LSU bio). He also took a huge step forward after an up-and-down freshman year, earning second-team All-Big 12 honors and allowing fewer pressures (seven) than any Power 4 offensive tackle transfer with at least 500 total snaps. Seaton has the gifts; now he must continue to polish his game as he prepares for SEC pass rushers.<\/p>\n

No. 15: Will Echoles, DL, Ole Miss<\/p>\n

The first-team All-SEC pick had more pressures (39) than any other defensive tackle in the Power 4 in 2025. The 6-3, 315-pound junior is quick and strong and plays with relentless, consistent effort and is as effective stopping the run as he is rushing the passer. He finished 2025 with 68 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss and five sacks.<\/p>\n

No. 16: Charlie Becker, WR, Indiana<\/p>\n

Becker, a junior, was mostly a special teams presence until a midseason injury opened the door for him last season. He put together 100-yard receiving performances against Penn State, Wisconsin and Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship Game, then made some highlight-reel catches in the CFP. Becker averaged 20 yards per catch, had zero drops and didn\u2019t need much space to snag the ball (he caught 13 of 17 contested-catch opportunities last year).<\/p>\n

No. 17: Kewan Lacy, RB, Ole Miss<\/p>\n

Lacy was third in the FBS last season with 1,567 rushing yards, and his 24 rushing touchdowns and 38 carries of 10-plus yards both ranked second among Power 4 backs.\u00a0He\u2019s an explosive back who has home run speed, can elude defenders in the open field, is physical in short yardage and is an effective receiver (29 catches last season).<\/p>\n

No. 18: Drew Mestemaker, QB, Oklahoma State<\/p>\n

Mestemaker, a former walk-on, burst onto the scene last year as a redshirt freshman at North Texas, throwing for an FBS-leading 4,379 yards (including 608 in one game<\/a>!). He was one of the most universally praised passers in College QB Tiers<\/a>, where he ranked sixth, and he\u2019s already getting first-round draft buzz for 2027. He followed his head coach at UNT, Eric Morris, to Stillwater, along with plenty of other former Mean Green players and coaches. \u201cUnreal arm talent,\u201d a Big 12 personnel director said. \u201cProbably the best arm talent in the league.\u201d<\/p>\n

No. 19: Anthony Smith, edge, Minnesota<\/p>\n

Big (6-6, 280), strong and powerful properly sums up Smith, a senior who is big enough to play inside but was a terror off the edge. He moves well for his size, and when he gets his hands on a ball carrier, it\u2019s over. In 2025, Smith led the Big Ten with 12.5 sacks and finished second in the league with 17.5 tackles for loss.<\/p>\n

No. 20: Kade Pieper, OL, Iowa<\/p>\n

Pieper starred at right guard for the Hawkeyes\u2019 Joe Moore Award-winning offensive line and excelled in the run game, where his strength and explosion are quickly evident. He allowed just one sack in 332 pass-blocking snaps last year and could be moving to center this year to succeed departed star Logan Jones in the middle.<\/p>\n

No. 21: A\u2019Mauri Washington, DL, Oregon<\/p>\n

Washington, No. 3 on the Freaks List<\/a>, had a strong first full season as a starter. His exceptional strength gave opposing linemen all they could handle, and he combines that with good quickness and instinctive play. His eight pass breakups were the most in the Big Ten among defensive linemen, and he added 22 pressures, 33 tackles and 4.5 TFLs. The senior is a critical part of the Ducks\u2019 elite defensive line.<\/p>\n

No. 22: Xavier Atkins, LB, Auburn<\/p>\n

The junior was everywhere, using his speed and quickness to consistently penetrate opposing backfields. He led the SEC in tackles for loss (17) and led Auburn in tackles (84) and sacks (nine) en route to first-team All-SEC honors in 2025.<\/p>\n

No. 23: Trevor Goosby, OT, Texas<\/p>\n

Goosby, who\u2019s entering his fourth year with the Longhorns, took over as the starting left tackle in 2025 and showed why he\u2019s so highly thought of. His size (6-7, 325) and length and impressive strength make him a force in the run game and a capable pass protector. He allowed just three sacks in 492 pass-blocking snaps.<\/p>\n

No. 24: Bray Hubbard, S, Alabama<\/p>\n

Hubbard, a senior, is always around the ball. Last season, he tied for the SEC lead with four interceptions and added six pass breakups and three forced fumbles. As a tackler, he packs a punch and finished with 79, including 4.5 for loss and two sacks.<\/p>\n

\n

Alabama safety Bray Hubbard #18 was a maniac vs. Wisconsin.<\/p>\n

Big, fast, alert and physical. \ud83d\udcc8 pic.twitter.com\/fVB25Mhtk9<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) September 14, 2025<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No. 25: A.J. Holmes Jr., DL, Texas Tech<\/p>\n

The fifth-year senior and former Houston transfer thrived in his first season with the Red Raiders, generating 37 pressures (second most among Power 4 defensive tackles) and finishing with nine tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks en route to second-team Associated Press All-America honors. The 6-3, 300-pound Holmes is quick, strong and plays with relentless energy.<\/p>\n

No. 26: Trevor Lauck, OT, Iowa<\/p>\n

Lauck, now entering his fourth year, was another key part of the Hawkeyes\u2019 award-winning front in 2025, his first as the starting left tackle, where he displayed his toughness, athleticism, intellect and exceptional technique. The third-team All-Big Ten pick allowed no sacks and only six hurries in 303 pass-blocking snaps.<\/p>\n

No. 27: Tyrique Tucker, DL, Indiana<\/p>\n

Tucker, a fifth-year senior, excelled in his first year as a full-time starter at nose tackle for the Hoosiers. The third-team AP All-American was a consistent disruptive force and finished with 12 tackles for loss, six sacks and 30 pressures, tied for fifth-most among Power 4 defensive tackles.<\/p>\n

No. 28: Ahmad Hardy, RB, Missouri<\/p>\n

Hardy was one of the biggest impact transfers last year, following up a stellar freshman season at Louisiana-Monroe in 2024 with an even better sophomore year with Mizzou. He was the second-leading rusher in the FBS and tops among P4 backs (1,649 yards). His physical running style makes him a chore to tackle, and if you don\u2019t bring him down, he\u2019ll take it the distance (eight rushes of 40-plus yards were tied for the most in FBS). He is fully healed from a gunshot wound suffered in May,<\/a> but he won\u2019t be ready for the season opener, according to coach Eli Drinkwitz, who said he doesn\u2019t have a timetable for his return and it depends on Hardy\u2019s body and response.<\/p>\n

No. 29: Jadan Baugh, RB, Florida<\/p>\n

Retaining Baugh, the SEC\u2019s third-leading rusher (1,170 yards), was a big win for new Gators coach Jon Sumrall. No returning Power 4 back accounted for a larger share of his team\u2019s scrimmage yards than Baugh (33.7 percent). The third-year back is an elusive runner, especially for his size (6-1, 225), and he\u2019s a more than capable receiver (33 catches, 210 yards, two TDs).<\/p>\n

No. 30: Mark Fletcher Jr., RB, Miami<\/p>\n

There weren\u2019t many answers for Fletcher in the CFP, where he cemented himself as one of the nation\u2019s elite backs, rushing for 507 yards in four games. He finished the year with 1,192 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. The senior is big (6-2, 225), physical, has excellent burst and runs with purpose.<\/p>\n

No. 31: Duce Robinson, WR, Florida State<\/p>\n

Robinson, a senior, gives opponents headaches with his size (6-6, 230) and playmaking ability. He\u2019s adept at snagging jump balls but also effective in the intermediate game and is a weapon after the catch. Of his 1,081 receiving yards last year, 900 came against Power 4 competition, third-most among returning receivers.<\/p>\n

No. 32: Arch Manning, QB, Texas<\/p>\n

Forget all the hyperbole around Manning: Despite some early-season struggles (from both Manning and his supporting cast), he had a solid first year as a full-time starter, throwing for 3,163 yards, 26 touchdowns and seven interceptions. His late-season performance \u2014 11 touchdown passes and one interception in his final five games \u2014 was most encouraging, and his fourth year of college football, with an improved infrastructure around him, is set to be his best.<\/p>\n

No. 33: Sam Leavitt, QB, LSU<\/p>\n

After his breakout 2024 season at Arizona State, a foot injury cut Leavitt\u2019s 2025 campaign short. That didn\u2019t deter QB-needy suitors in the transfer portal, who still believe in his dynamic playmaking ability. He\u2019s at his best when freelancing, and his talent is a seamless fit for Lane Kiffin\u2019s offense. \u201cIf that dude\u2019s healthy, he\u2019s going to be up for the Heisman,\u201d a Power 4 head coach said.<\/p>\n

No. 34: Jayden Maiava, QB, USC<\/p>\n

Maiava took big strides forward in 2025, particularly as a decision-maker. He had top-tier weapons around him that are now gone, and after leading the Big Ten in passing (3,711 yards, 9.2 yards per attempt), there\u2019s a lot of positivity around his development. \u201cHe\u2019ll just continue to get better,\u201d a Power 4 OC said.<\/p>\n

No. 35: David Stone, DL, Oklahoma<\/p>\n

Stone, a junior, emerged as one of the more disruptive interior forces in the country last year. He plays with the strength and power you\u2019d expect from someone who\u2019s 6-3, 315, whether plugging up the middle in the run game or finding his way into the backfield. He finished with 42 tackles and eight TFLs last season.<\/p>\n

No. 36: Brice Pollock, CB, Texas Tech<\/p>\n

Pollock, a senior, was all over the place for the Red Raiders last season. The All-Big 12 first-teamer tied for the league lead with five interceptions, allowed no touchdowns in 69 targets and had the lowest NFL passer rating against among returning P4 cornerbacks.<\/p>\n

No. 37: Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State<\/p>\n

Jones, entering his fourth year, had an exceptional 2025 season. He allowed only 11 completions in 38 targets, and his 28.9 percent reception rate allowed was the best in the FBS. The 6-4, 195 Mississippi native is long, lean and fast.<\/p>\n

No. 38: Clev Lubin, edge, Louisville<\/p>\n

Lubin, a fifth-year senior, made a seamless transition to the Power 4 after transferring from Coastal Carolina. He was third in the ACC in pressures (64) behind only Miami\u2019s super duo of Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor. He led the Cardinals in tackles for loss (13.5), sacks (8.5), forced fumbles (three) and added five pass breakups.<\/p>\n

No. 39: Ahmad Moten, DL, Miami<\/p>\n

Moten, a fifth-year senior, blossomed into a force as a full-time starter in 2025. He\u2019s quick off the line of scrimmage and displays impressive play strength, making him a load for interior offensive linemen. He generated 27 pressures and had nine tackles for loss last season.<\/p>\n

No. 40: Noah Fifita, QB, Arizona<\/p>\n

The fifth-year senior is the most experienced Big 12 quarterback (40 career games, including 34 starts) and had a bounce-back 2025, throwing for 3,228 yards, 29 touchdowns and just six interceptions. \u201cHe can sling it, run and extend plays,\u201d a P4 personnel director said. \u201cReally good player, keeps getting better.\u201d<\/p>\n

\n

Noah Fifita with a DIME for another @ArizonaFBall<\/a> TD \ud83c\udfaf pic.twitter.com\/AlbH5S8JW2<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 1, 2025<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No. 41: Brandon Finney Jr., CB, Oregon<\/p>\n

Finney, a 6-2, 203-pound sophomore, can do it all. He started all 15 games as a true freshman and led the Ducks with three interceptions and eight pass breakups. His 40 percent reception rate allowed was the lowest among Big Ten corners, and his 42.3 NFL passer rating against is the lowest among returning Big Ten corners. And he\u2019s a physical tackler who\u2019s not afraid to attack the line of scrimmage.<\/p>\n

No. 42: Evan Tengesdahl, OG, Cincinnati<\/p>\n

Tengesdahl, entering his fourth season, was part of a Cincinnati O-line that was a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award and allowed only eight sacks as a group. Tengesdahl allowed none in 408 pass-blocking snaps.<\/p>\n

No. 43: Rolijah Hardy, LB, Indiana<\/p>\n

The junior was the Hoosiers\u2019 leading tackler in 2025 (102 stops) and also led the team with eight sacks while adding 15 tackles for loss. He also had the sixth-lowest missed tackle rate among Power 4 linebackers (5.8 percent).<\/p>\n

No. 44: KJ Duff, WR, Rutgers<\/p>\n

Duff was third in the Big Ten with 1,084 yards receiving and had seven touchdown catches. The 6-6, 225-pound junior also tied for the FBS lead in contested catches, with 22.<\/p>\n

No. 45: Cayden Green, OT, Missouri<\/p>\n

Green, a senior, moved from left guard to left tackle in 2025, and the transition went smoothly. He allowed just seven pressures \u2014 fifth-fewest among FBS tackles with at least 500 total snaps \u2014 and two sacks in 367 pass-blocking snaps.<\/p>\n

No. 46: Shadre Hurst, OG, Houston<\/p>\n

The Tulane transfer is reunited with former coach Willie Fritz after a stellar run with the Green Wave, where he was a two-time all-conference pick and allowed just one sack in three seasons as a starter (1,215 pass-blocking snaps).<\/p>\n

No. 47: Damon Wilson, edge, Miami<\/p>\n

Wilson, a fourth-year player with stops at Georgia and Missouri, was one of the most productive pass rushers in the SEC last year. He finished third among conference edge rushers with nine sacks and 54 pressures.<\/p>\n

No. 48: Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia<\/p>\n

Robinson had a breakout 2025, tying for the SEC lead with four interceptions. He excels at tracking the ball and had no problem keeping up with top-tier receiving threats. He allowed only 15 catches on 35 targets (42.9 percent), the second-lowest rate among returning P4 corners.<\/p>\n

No. 49: Isaac Brown, RB, Louisville<\/p>\n

Brown, a junior, was on his way to consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons before an injury caused him to miss four games and limited him to 884 and seven touchdowns in nine games. His 8.8 yards per rush was highest among FBS running backs with at least 100 carries.<\/p>\n

No. 50: Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, LB, Notre Dame<\/p>\n

Viliamu-Asa is as versatile a linebacker as you can find. The 6-3, 234-pound junior is fast and physical, and he\u2019s impactful at the line of scrimmage (he generated 23 pressures last year). He has the speed to chase down ball carriers across the field and excels in coverage.<\/p>\n

No. 51: John Henry Daley, edge, Michigan<\/p>\n

Daley, who followed coach Kyle Whittingham from Utah to Ann Arbor, was one of the most productive pass rushers in the country last year. He finished tied for fifth in the FBS in tackles for loss (17.5), tied for seventh in sacks (11.5) and tied for 12th in pressures (51).<\/p>\n

No. 52: LJ Martin, RB, BYU<\/p>\n

Martin, a senior, was the primary cog in the BYU offense and earned Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year honors after leading the conference in rushing with 1,305 yards and finishing second with 12 touchdowns on the ground.<\/p>\n

\n

Have a DAY, LJ \ud83e\udd29
\ud83d\udcca 32 CAR | 222 YDS | 2 TDs<\/p>\n

LJ Martin Highlights vs. Cincinnati \ud83c\udfa5#Big12FB<\/a> | @BYUfootball<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/nCmTz5mhYk<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 Big 12 Studios (@big12studios) November 23, 2025<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No. 53: Rasheem Biles, LB, Texas<\/p>\n

Biles, a senior who transferred from Pitt, can run, hit and cover. He was third in the ACC in tackles for loss (17) and led Pitt in tackles (101), and he also returned two interceptions for touchdowns.<\/p>\n

No. 54: Teitum Tuioti, edge, Oregon<\/p>\n

The senior is explosive off the edge and notched 16 tackles for loss \u2014 including one in each of the first 14 games of the season \u2014 and 9.5 sacks along with 68 tackles, five pass breakups and two forced fumbles in 2025.<\/p>\n

No. 55: Anthonie Knapp, OG, Notre Dame<\/p>\n

Knapp excelled last year as a left tackle, allowing just one sack in 334 pass-blocking snaps. This year, the 6-5, 305-pound junior moves to left guard.<\/p>\n

No. 56: Gunner Stockton, QB, Georgia<\/p>\n

What Stockton may lack in ideal physical traits, he more than makes up for with toughness, smart play and competitive fire. He\u2019s accurate (his 7 percent off-target rate was best in the Power 4), productive and takes care of the ball (34-to-7 touchdown-to-turnover ratio).<\/p>\n

No. 57: Sammy Brown, LB, Clemson<\/p>\n

Brown continues to be a star for the Tigers, following up a strong freshman debut with a terrific sophomore season, finishing second in the ACC in tackles (106) and second among ACC linebackers in tackles for loss (13.5).<\/p>\n

No. 58: Iapani Laloulu, C, Oregon<\/p>\n

Laloulu was a Rimington Trophy finalist who started all 15 games at center for the Ducks, allowing just one sack in 466 pass-blocking snaps and none in the last nine games of the season.<\/p>\n

No. 59: Yhonzae Pierre, edge, Alabama<\/p>\n

Pierre, who\u2019s entering his third year, emerged as an impactful pass rusher, leading the Crimson Tide in tackles for loss (14.5), sacks (eight) and finishing sixth in the SEC with 45 pressures.<\/p>\n

No. 60: Josh Hoover, QB, Indiana<\/p>\n

No active FBS quarterback has thrown for more yards the last three years than Hoover (9,629), who started 31 games in that span for TCU. He must take care of the ball better (71 touchdowns, 33 interceptions), but there\u2019s little question about his ability. \u201cArm talent as good as anyone\u2019s,\u201d a P4 personnel director said.<\/p>\n

No. 61: Zabien Brown, CB, Alabama<\/p>\n

Brown, a junior, displayed strong cover skills, broke up six passes and had two pick-sixes, both of which came in key moments in big games against Tennessee and Oklahoma. He also doesn\u2019t shy away from contact.<\/p>\n

No. 62: Mario Craver, WR, Texas A&M<\/p>\n

Craver, a small-statured junior with tremendous speed, is a yards-after-catch machine. He has the third most YAC (588) among returning FBS receivers and caught 59 passes for 917 yards last year.<\/p>\n

No. 63: Justice Haynes, RB, Georgia Tech<\/p>\n

Haynes, a transfer with stops at Michigan and Alabama, was on a tear before a foot injury ended his 2025 season prematurely. He finished with 857 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in just seven games, surpassing 100 rushing yards in every game that he finished healthy.<\/p>\n

No. 64: Quincy Rhodes Jr., edge, Arkansas<\/p>\n

Rhodes, a senior, earned second-team All-SEC honors after notching a team-high 15.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks last season. He\u2019s the first Razorback to record double-digit tackles for loss since Trey Flowers in 2015.<\/p>\n

No. 65: Marcel Reed, QB, Texas A&M<\/p>\n

Reed led the Aggies to an 11-2 season and their first CFP appearance in his first full season as QB1, throwing for 3,169 yards, 25 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while adding 493 rushing yards and six more scores.<\/p>\n

No. 66: Greg Johnson, OG, Minnesota<\/p>\n

Johnson took snaps at four positions up front, but the vast majority came at left guard, where he excelled. Against the Gophers\u2019 10 P4 opponents, he allowed just one sack and seven pressures in 358 pass-blocking snaps.<\/p>\n

No. 67: Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, QB, Cal<\/p>\n

The lefty showed star potential as a true freshman with his elite anticipation and ball placement. He threw for 3,454 yards, 18 touchdowns and nine interceptions and should be even better with an upgraded supporting cast in 2026.<\/p>\n

No. 68: Whit Weeks, LB, LSU<\/p>\n

Weeks, a 2024 first-team All-SEC pick, was slowed by injury last season and missed five games. When healthy, he is a fast, physical, instinctive player who\u2019s one of the best linebackers in the game.<\/p>\n

No. 69: Kevin Jennings, QB, SMU<\/p>\n

Jennings quietly had a good year, improving his numbers in most passing categories from his 2024 CFP season, throwing for 3,641 yards and 30 touchdowns. \u201cHe has been really solid and probably overlooked because it doesn\u2019t look the prettiest all the time,\u201d a Power 4 OC said.<\/p>\n

No. 70: Amare Ferrell, S, Indiana<\/p>\n

Ferrell, a second-team All-Big Ten pick, was a disruptive force in the Indiana secondary, notching four interceptions and seven pass breakups to go with 48 tackles and two tackles for loss.<\/p>\n

No. 71: Taylor Wein, edge, Oklahoma<\/p>\n

The fourth-year edge evolved into a force for the Sooners last year, leading the team in tackles for loss (15), sacks (seven) and pressures (36) en route to second-team All-SEC honors.<\/p>\n

No. 72: Trey\u2019Dez Green, TE, LSU<\/p>\n

At 6-7, 237, Green is a matchup nightmare because of how well he can move at his size. His seven touchdown catches were tied for second-most among FBS tight ends, and 75 percent of his catches went for first downs or touchdowns, third-highest rate among TEs with at least 40 targets.<\/p>\n

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6’7″ Trey’Dez Green came down with this \ud83d\ude33 pic.twitter.com\/eqGd8Uj38f<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) December 28, 2025<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No. 73: Koi Perich, S, Oregon<\/p>\n

Though primarily a safety, Perich can impact the game in all three phases. The Minnesota transfer had 82 tackles, three tackles for loss, one sack and one pick-six en route to third-team All-Big Ten honors as a safety. He also served as the primary kickoff and punt returner while also seeing time on offense.<\/p>\n

No. 74: Boubacar Traore, edge, Notre Dame<\/p>\n

The 6-5, 253-pound senior is long, strong and impactful off the edge. He led the Irish with 10 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks and 31 pressures last year.<\/p>\n

No. 75: Antwan Raymond, RB, Rutgers<\/p>\n

The Doak Walker Award semifinalist led the Scarlet Knights with 1,466 all-purpose yards and 15 total touchdowns. His 132 yards per game from scrimmage against Power 4 opponents is the highest of any returning running back in the FBS.<\/p>\n

No. 76: Suntarine Perkins, LB, Ole Miss<\/p>\n

Perkins played a key role in Ole Miss\u2019 run to the CFP semifinals, finishing second on the team in tackles (81) and tackles for loss (12.5), breaking up six passes, forcing three fumbles, picking off one pass and adding 31 pressures.<\/p>\n

No. 77: Ben Roberts, LB, Texas Tech<\/p>\n

Jacob Rodriguez was not the only linebacker stuffing the stat sheet for the Red Raiders. Roberts, a fifth-year senior, had 90 tackles, four interceptions, six pass breakups and two forced fumbles.<\/p>\n

No. 78: John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma<\/p>\n

Mateer was a Heisman Trophy candidate before a thumb injury on his throwing hand disrupted his season last September. His performance plateaued post-injury, but he\u2019s turned heads with his offseason training<\/a>. \u201cGritty,\u201d an SEC general manager said of Mateer. \u201cSuper threatening every single Saturday.\u201d<\/p>\n

No. 79: Will Heldt, edge, Clemson<\/p>\n

One of the small handful of transfers Dabo Swinney signed before the 2025 season, Heldt (formerly of Purdue) made a major impact, leading the Tigers in tackles for loss (15.5), sacks (7.5) and pressures (45).<\/p>\n

No. 80: CJ Bailey, QB, NC State<\/p>\n

Bailey\u2019s a high-ceiling talent who showed a lot of promise in his second year as the starter, throwing for 3,105 yards and 25 touchdowns to just nine interceptions with a 68.8 percent completion rate.<\/p>\n

No. 81: Austin Siereveld, OT, Ohio State<\/p>\n

Siereveld, who\u2019s entering his fourth year, started all 14 games at left tackle and didn\u2019t allow a sack all season (425 pass-blocking snaps) en route to second-team All-Big Ten honors.<\/p>\n

No. 82: Bryce Fitzgerald, S, Miami<\/p>\n

Fitzgerald made a major impact on the Hurricanes as a freshman with six interceptions, tied for the ACC lead, including two in Miami\u2019s first-round CFP win over Texas A&M. He allowed only nine receptions on 20 targets, the third-lowest reception rate among Power 4 safeties last year.<\/p>\n

No. 83: Amare Thomas, WR, Houston<\/p>\n

After transferring to Houston from UAB, Thomas quickly became one of the Big 12\u2019s most productive receivers, catching 67 passes and finishing second in the league in receiving yards (966) and touchdown catches (12).<\/p>\n

No. 84: Princewill Umanmielen, edge, LSU<\/p>\n

Umanmielen, who transferred from Ole Miss, made the most of his playing time, generating 51 pressures and leading the Rebels in tackles for loss (13) and sacks (nine) in 489 snaps. He led SEC edge rushers in pass-rushing productivity, per PFF.<\/p>\n

No. 85: Trey White, edge, Texas Tech<\/p>\n

White arrives to bolster Tech\u2019s pass rush after a productive career at San Diego State, where he combined for 29 tackles for loss and 19.5 sacks over the last two seasons.<\/p>\n

No. 86: Tae Johnson, S, Notre Dame<\/p>\n

Johnson is an intriguing talent who has the range to chase ball carriers sideline to sideline and the coverage instincts to be in the right spot as a pass defender. He had four interceptions, including a pick-six, and broke up three passes in 10 games last season.<\/p>\n

No. 87: Terrance Carter Jr., TE, Texas Tech<\/p>\n

Carter was one of the most productive tight ends in the country last season, with 55 catches for 624 yards and five touchdowns. He\u2019s the leading returning FBS tight end in receiving yards.<\/p>\n

No. 88: Justin Evans, C, Nebraska<\/p>\n

Evans switched from guard in 2024 to center in 2025 and excelled, moving opponents in the run game for 1,400-yard rusher Emmett Johnson and allowing no sacks in 443 pass-blocking snaps.<\/p>\n

No. 89: Zach Lutmer, S, Iowa<\/p>\n

Lutmer is a versatile defensive back who primarily plays nickel for the Hawkeyes but can play corner and deep safety as well. He\u2019s effective in pursuit and disruptive in the box (5.5 tackles for loss), but also excels in coverage (three interceptions, seven pass breakups).<\/p>\n

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PICK SIX FOR NO. 6! <\/p>\n

Zach Lutmer with the house call! pic.twitter.com\/73pyGvuRLX<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 CBS Sports (@CBSSports) October 25, 2025<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

No. 90: Melvin Siani, OT, Texas<\/p>\n

Texas needed offensive line reinforcements, and Siani, a Wake Forest transfer, is exactly that. He allowed no sacks and the fewest pressures (nine) among starting ACC tackles in 487 pass-blocking snaps last year.<\/p>\n

No. 91: Bo Jackson, RB, Ohio State<\/p>\n

Jackson was one of three FBS true freshman running backs to top 1,000 rushing yards last year, leading the Buckeyes with 1,090 yards and six touchdowns while adding 200 receiving yards and one TD on 19 catches.<\/p>\n

No. 92: Kip Lewis, LB, Oklahoma<\/p>\n

Lewis plays a huge role on the Sooners\u2019 top-ranked SEC defense, from fitting gaps in the run game to knifing into the backfield (10.5 tackles for loss) and getting to the quarterback (21 pressures last year). He led OU in tackles (76), broke up four passes and forced one fumble.<\/p>\n

No. 93: Jackson Bennee, S, Utah<\/p>\n

Bennee did just about everything the Utes asked of him, from playing nickelback, safety, special teams and even some offense. He had four interceptions, five pass breakups, two blocked kicks and led all Power 4 safeties with 16 QB pressures.<\/p>\n

No. 94: Jamari Johnson, TE, Oregon<\/p>\n

Johnson produced more than most FBS tight ends despite playing alongside first-round pick Kenyon Sadiq. He was 38th among P4 tight ends in targets but 13th in receiving yards with 510, a number that should jump as his target share increases.<\/p>\n

No. 95: Caleb Hawkins, RB, Oklahoma State<\/p>\n

Hawkins dominated the American in his time at North Texas, rushing for a league-high 1,434 yards and an FBS-best 25 touchdowns as a freshman before transferring back to his home state.<\/p>\n

No. 96: Drew Bobo, C, Georgia<\/p>\n

Bobo anchored the Dawgs\u2019 front for 11 games before a foot injury cut his season short. Among SEC starting centers, he allowed the second-fewest pressures (six) and allowed no sacks in 376 pass-blocking snaps.<\/p>\n

No. 97: Nate Sheppard, RB, Duke<\/p>\n

Sheppard was one of three true freshman FBS backs (joining Hawkins and Jackson) to surpass the 1,000-yard mark, finishing second in the ACC with 1,132 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns while adding 286 receiving yards and another score.<\/p>\n

No. 98: Ty Benefield, S, LSU<\/p>\n

The Boise State transfer brings loads of experience to the LSU secondary (33 starts). The first-team All-Mountain West pick led the Broncos with 107 tackles, including 8.5 TFLs, and added two interceptions and three pass breakups.<\/p>\n

No. 99: Cade Uluave, LB, BYU<\/p>\n

The first-team All-ACC pick transferred from Cal, where he started 26 games over three seasons and led the Bears in 2025 with 100 tackles and 12 TFLs and broke up six passes.<\/p>\n

No. 100: DeSean Bishop, RB, Tennessee<\/p>\n

The former walk-on arrived in Knoxville in 2023 and has emerged as one of the top backs in the SEC, rushing for 1,076 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2025. The 5-10, 215-pound Bishop is a tough, decisive downhill runner who can accelerate and isn\u2019t easy to bring down.<\/p>\n