Wolverines seal their ‘perfect story’ with CFP title
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Heather Dinich, ESPN Senior Writer
HOUSTON — In the end, the “Michigan vs. Everybody” mantra that inspired the Wolverines all season long was quite fitting.
The Wolverines did indeed square off against everybody — from the NCAA to their own Big Ten conference to the No. 2 team in the nation Monday night on college football’s greatest stage. On and off the field, Michigan refused to let any opponent, any NCAA investigation or any of the six games its head coach was suspended for get in its way of winning a national title.
And Monday night, when it mattered the most, No. 1 Michigan did it again, beating No. 2 Washington 34-13 before an announced crowd of 72,808 at NRG Stadium to earn the school’s first national championship since 1997, when it shared the honor with Nebraska. The Wolverines asserted themselves from the opening kickoff and never trailed against the Huskies (14-1).
“I feel like this has been the perfect happy ending,” said running back Donovan Edwards, who averaged an astounding 17.3 yards per carry and finished with 103 yards and two touchdowns. “A lot of personal success, a lot of personal failures, but our ultimate goal was to win a national championship. … There’s no other feeling than to go through what we have and still come out on top. So perfect story, a lot of adversity — Coach Harbaugh’s not there for six games — perfect story.”
Michigan’s national title will always be entangled with what was the biggest story in college football this year: allegations of a widespread sign-stealing scheme allegedly led by former staff member Connor Stalions, who resigned Nov. 4. As polarizing as the program has been nationally, though, those within it have only been galvanized by the controversy and accusations.
“It fueled us,” Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham said. “Everything that we’ve been through, everything they tried to do to us, tried to discredit everything we did this season. Winning this game solidifies we’re that team. … Coach Harbaugh’s on the plane and he doesn’t even get to go to our game against Penn State. Our back’s been against the wall, but this team’s different.”
So is its head coach.
After the confetti had fallen, Harbaugh found his parents on the field and first wrapped his 84-yeard-old father — a spitting image of himself — in a bear hug, lifting him up off the ground. He turned to his mother and did the same, planting a kiss on her and saying, “We did it!”
“For me personally, I can now sit at the big person’s table in the family,” said Harbaugh, a former Michigan quarterback in his ninth season coaching his alma mater. “They won’t keep me over there on the little table anymore. My dad, Jack Harbaugh, won a national championship and my brother [John] won a Super Bowl. It’s good to be at the big person’s table from now on.”
In what was the first national championship game appearance for both teams, (Michigan’s ’97 shared title with Nebraska was won one year before the first BCS National Championship game) Michigan became the sixth team in major college football history to finish 15-0 or better in a season and set the Big Ten’s record for the most wins in a season.
The Wolverines did it the old-school way, with a relentless running game that racked up 303 yards, and a stifling defense that flustered Heisman runner-up quarterback Michael Penix Jr. into two interceptions.
Michigan jumped out to a 14-3 first-quarter lead, but Washington responded with a 3-yard touchdown from Penix to Jalen McMillan that sent the Huskies to the locker room trailing 17-10. That was the only touchdown, though, they would score.
“They’re a good team,” Penix said. “We just didn’t execute in the moments when we needed to. It’s just about executing. I don’t feel like they did anything — I feel like we beat ourselves.”
Michigan had all of the pieces in place for the perfect season — starting with a veteran quarterback in J.J. McCarthy, who wasn’t flashy, but won the turnover battle against Penix.
Michigan had the burly offensive line that won the battle up front and paved the way for a dynamic duo at running back in Blake Corum and Edwards. They each ran for over 100 yards and together accounted for four touchdowns. Corum, who missed last year’s CFP with a knee injury, was named the game’s Offensive MVP after totaling 134 yards and two touchdowns.
Michigan also had the stingy defense that flustered Penix all night, making it far more difficult for the Huskies to have success in the deep passing game — or any passing game at all. Penix completed 27 of 51 pass attempts (53%) for 255 yards and a touchdown.
“That was a spectacular game by our defense,” Harbaugh said.
This was arguably the most talented Michigan team in decades, one that built its success on not only a senior-laden roster, but also discipline, rarely racking up penalties and turnovers. It wasn’t, though, without its flaws.
There was the NCAA investigation into alleged recruiting violations during the 2020 season, and a separate NCAA investigation into a widespread sign-stealing scheme. There was also Harbaugh’s three-game suspension to open the season, and another three-game suspension to end the season — the latter was imposed by the Big Ten for violating the league’s sportsmanship policy by illegally going off-campus to steal signs.
Michigan’s motivation extended beyond that, though, going back to its Fiesta Bowl loss to TCU to end the 2022 season — the program’s second straight CFP semifinal loss.
“I’d say we came a long way, but in order to accomplish things like this, you’ve got to go to those dark places where everything’s not great,” McCarthy said. “And just the response, the urgency right after that last game last year, it was different. I knew it. Just from being on the podium last year and saying we would be back. I knew the guys that were coming back. I had this feeling that it was going to be where we are right now.”
With Harbaugh sidelined for the final three games of the regular season, offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore led the Wolverines to critical wins against Penn State, Maryland and Ohio State. When asked what the phrase “Michigan vs. Everybody” mean to him, Moore said, “If you’re not with us, you’re against us.”
With Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti watching from a suite with Big Ten staff, Big Ten Network staff and guests, Michigan did what it has done all season in spite of the controversy — it outplayed its opponent.
Michigan averaged a whopping 19.3 yards per carry in the first quarter. The Wolverines won the battle up front and created confusion for Washington’s defense. Michigan had four plays of at least 35 yards, and the Huskies’ defense allowed 209 rushing yards in the first half — the most the program has allowed in a half since 2011.
Washington’s 17-3 deficit in the first quarter was its largest of the season.
With 10:27 remaining in the first half, Washington’s Rome Odunze, one of the top receivers in the country, was wide open and within scoring range when Penix overthrew him on a daring fourth-and-7 play the Huskies desperately needed to swing the momentum.
At one point in the fourth quarter, Penix had completed just 26.7% of his passes thrown at least 5 yards (4-of-15) and had thrown an interception. With 4:29 left in the game, he threw another one which Mike Sainristil ran back 81 yards to Washington’s 8-yard line. The play set up Corum’s second touchdown that put the Wolverines ahead 34-13.
It was the second time in the second half a touchdown by Corum provided some separation. With 7:09 left in the game, Corum ran 12 yards for a touchdown that put the Wolverines ahead 27-13. It was a Hollywood ending for Corum, who lead the FBS with 27 total touchdowns and is unlikely to return next season. He has had a rushing touchdown in 15 straight games, the longest streak by a Michigan player in the past 20 seasons.
“Coaches always say, playmakers make plays, and don’t wait on anyone else to make a play,” Corum said. “Today was a complete, complete team effort.”
McCarthy completed 10 of 18 passes because he didn’t have to be a hero in the air with so much success on the ground. As McCarthy left the locker room after the game to go to the postgame news conference, he exhaled.
“Oh man,” he said, “we did it.”
Against everybody.
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Craig Haubert
As teams get set to begin the fight on the field for the top spots in the College Football Playoff rankings, they continue to battle for position in the 2026 class rankings. USC maintains a slim lead over the rest of the pack, with Georgia sitting on the Trojans’ heels.
We’re expanding the rankings from 25 to 40 teams, with the ACC, Big Ten and SEC each holding at least 10 of those spots. The Big Ten has the most teams ranked with 12.
With less than a dozen prospects in the ESPN 300 remaining undeclared, further ascension could be tough. But many of those players are inside the top 100, and that coupled with the fact that the recruiting world is always full of unexpected twists and turns, suggests the race for positioning in the rankings, including at the very top, is far from settled.
(Previous update: July 30)
Previous ranking: 1
ESPN 300 commits: 19
Top offensive prospect: OT Keenyi Pepe
Top defensive prospect: CB Elbert Hill
No program has more 2026 momentum than USC under Lincoln Riley, especially after hiring general manager Chad Bowden away from Notre Dame. The Trojans have double-digit ESPN 300 commits, with several joining the list since January. That includes two five-stars to start May in Pepe and Hill, and a pair of four-star commits who flipped from Big Ten rival Oregon: in-state defensive lineman Tomuhini Topui and quarterback Jonas Williams. Topui is a physical, aggressive defensive tackle who could develop into an interior pass-rushing headache for opposing offenses, and Williams is a true dual-threat signal-caller.
USC also made it a point to beef up in the trenches. It pulled four-star defensive tackle Jaimeon Winfield out of Texas, landed in-state defensive end Simote Katoanga and traveled to Utah to snag Corner Canyon offensive lineman Esun Tafa. To further bolster the O-line, the Trojans landed Pepe out of IMG Academy. He is huge at roughly 6-foot-7 and 320 pounds, but is light on his feet as well as physical and can become a standout tackle. On the perimeter, they will not have to wait for in-state defender R.J. Sermons as the ESPN 300 CB reclassified to 2025 and will join the Trojans this fall. For 2026, they pulled Elbert Hill, the top-ranked corner, out of the Midwest. Hill possesses elite speed, having been measured at over 22 mph in game play.
Previous ranking: 2
ESPN 300 commits: 19
Top offensive prospect: QB Jared Curtis
Top defensive prospect: CB Justice Fitzpatrick
The Bulldogs have been a staple among the top three recruiting classes during Kirby Smart’s tenure and look to be a contender to do so again in 2026. A big step toward finishing near the top is bringing five-star quarterback Curtis back into the mix. After a decommitment, the Bulldogs were able to fend off other suitors, most notably Oregon, and give themselves a potential impact QB for the future. Curtis might need to adjust to a relatively steep jump in competition level, but he has elite physical tools, including a smooth, quick release and the ability to change arm angles.
With three of their top four pass catchers from 2024 having moved on and the fourth likely to leave after this season, Georgia is bringing in new receiving targets with speed. Brady Marchese has been recorded hitting over 22 mph in game play. Kaiden Prothro can give the Bulldogs a matchup nightmare as he possesses an excellent blend of size, speed and body control. After signing two ESPN 300 TEs in their 2025 class, the Dawgs continue to restock there, adding Lincoln Keyes, who with his big frame and good body control can offer a wide catch radius.
On defense, the Bulldogs have had 11 first-round NFL draft picks over the past five years and they continue to infuse that unit with top talent, including two of the top DBs in the country in Fitzpatrick and Zechariah Fort. Fort is a safety with good range who can be active in run support. Fitzpatrick is the younger brother of former Alabama great Minkah Fitzpatrick; his blend of size and speed gives him equally promising impact potential.
Previous ranking: 3
ESPN 300 commits: 15
Top offensive prospect: RB K.J. Edwards
Top defensive prospect: ATH Brandon Arrington
Mike Elko has quickly proved he can identify and recruit at a high level. He has worked fertile recruiting grounds outside his home territory, including Georgia, Florida, California. He went out west to land the nation’s No. 1-ranked athlete Brandon Arrington, whose speed could allow him to have an impact on either side of the ball, though he projects to corner in College Station. He pulled out Georgia ESPN 300 DLs Jordan Carter and Bryce Perry-Wright as well as landing fellow four-star defensive tackle Jermaine Kinsler out of New Jersey.
The Aggies bolstered their rushing attack with a pair of in-state running backs in K.J. Edwards and Jonathan Hatton, who has an excellent blend of size (200 pounds) and speed (he was measured hitting 21 mph on film). Edwards has been very productive in high school, rushing for 1,700 yards in each of his last two seasons.
Elko has also been able to unearth talent from more unlikely places, such as quarterback Helaman Casuga out of Utah. Casuga is not a big, physical prospect at roughly 6 feet, but he has a live arm and can get the ball out quickly. Victor Singleton, one of the top prospects in Ohio, was a nice flip from Illinois. He has clocked a 21-mph max speed and has the type of quickness and excellent feet to thrive in man coverage at corner.
Previous ranking: 4
ESPN 300 commits: 14
Top offensive prospect: QB Dia Bell
Top defensive prospect: DE Richard Wesley
As Texas tackles the 2025 season led by one of the most high-profile signings in recent years in quarterback Arch Manning, the Longhorns continue to build for the future, including another five-star QB. Dia Bell brings valuable experience, having faced quality competition during his time in high school. He has shown good accuracy and deep-ball touch, and as a junior threw for more than 2,500 yards and completed 70% of his passes.
The Horns also added potential targets in ESPN 300 WRs Chris Stewart and Jermaine Bishop Jr. Stewart brings big-play speed, and Bishop is a quick, fluid target who can create after the catch. Their backfield gained more five-star talent with Derrek Cooper, a versatile running back who blends excellent size and speed and can also be a receiving threat. To protect their new offensive weapons, they have also landed some top in-state OLs, including top-10 OG Nicolas Robertson, a powerful big man with good feet.
Texas hit the transfer portal hard to address needs along the defensive line for this season, especially interior DL, but there are young players for that unit in the 2026 class. One-time Oregon commit Richard Wesley was a big add as he is explosive and powerful and could be a versatile and impactful presence in the trenches. Dylan Berymon has been a standout on the camp circuit the past two offseasons and seems to keep rising to whatever challenge is thrown at him. Corey Wells is another 300-pounder who can bend well and be disruptive.
Previous ranking: 5
ESPN 300 commits: 17
Top offensive prospect: TE Ian Premer
Top defensive prospect: CB Khary Adams
Notre Dame started the year off slowly on the recruiting trail but added several key ESPN 300 additions in the spring and summer months, including important defensive additions. Rodney Dunham was one of the first on board and is an edge player with a quick first step. The secondary will benefit from adding some length to that unit. Ayden Pouncey is a rangy safety with a 6-foot-3 frame that could allow him to grow into an outside linebacker role. Khary Adams is one of the top cornerback prospects in the nation as he possesses an excellent blend of size (6-foot-2) and speed (21.3 mph max speed).
On offense, ESPN 300 OT Gregory Patrick joined a class that already featured several top offensive line prospects including top-10 tackle Tyler Merrill, who at 6-foot-7 and 335 pounds is a massive presence with physicality and power in the run game. This group collectively can continue the school’s strong reputation as an offensive line factory.
The Irish also landed Thomas Davis Jr., whose father is former Panthers star Thomas Davis, and four-star quarterback Noah Grubbs, who already has shown impressive footwork and a sound release from the pocket. Their QB of the future will benefit from multiple targets added in this class, including TE Ian Premer. Among the wide receivers in the group is high-three star Devin Fitzgerald, the son of former NFL great Larry Fitzgerald. Like his father, he is a good-sized target at nearly 6-foot-2 and has shown to be productive, with more than 50 receptions and nine TDs as a junior.
Previous ranking: 10
ESPN 300 commits: 12
Top offensive prospect: TE Kendre’ Harrison
Top defensive prospect: S Jett Washington
Dan Lanning’s run of sustained excellence in Eugene rolls on with Oregon’s 2026 class. Reeling in five-star tight end Kendre’ Harrison in November set the tone. The 6-6, 250-pound tight end is a dynamic two-sport athlete with an exceptional catch radius and is a nightmare for opposing defenses in the red zone. The Ducks also added a five-star prospect to their defense with the big-framed and rangy Jett Washington. A fluid safety with good ball skills and the ability to win jump-ball battles, he can also be a physical presence in the secondary. The Ducks added four-star defensive back Xavier Lherisse, who clocked an impressive 1.62 10-yard dash and 4.49 40-yard dash at the Under Armour Miami camp. Four-star running back Tradarian Ball adds explosiveness and excellent ball skills.
While the commitment of five-star DE Richard Wesley was short-lived, the Ducks still have a strong defensive line foundation within this class. They secured the top in-state big man in ESPN 300 DT Tony Cumberland, who has good burst and power, and can be a disruptive presence. DE Dutch Horisk will arrive from one of the top programs in California (St. John Bosco), where he has been a multiyear starter who uses his hands well; as a junior, he had nine TFLs and four sacks.
Oregon also has bolstered its O-line unit. Leading that group is five-star Immanuel Iheanacho, who is a massive presence at around 6-foot-7, 350 pounds and can push defenders around. The Ducks also pulled a pair of OLs from former conference foe Cal, in ESPN 300 OG Tommy Tofi and Koloi Keli.
Previous rank: 6
ESPN 300 commits: 10
Top offensive prospect: RB Ezavier Crowell
Top defensive prospect: S Jireh Edwards
It took some time for Alabama’s class to find its footing, but an active June brought the Tide into the mix among the top classes in the country. They kept one of the top running backs in the class at home by landing Ezavier Crowell, an aggressive runner who possesses good power and vision.
The defense is benefitting from some big pickups, including pulling several ESPN 300 defenders out of Georgia. Xavier Griffin has a lengthy and broad frame to develop and can get up field and bend the edge. From the same high school (Gainesville), the Tide snagged DE Jamarion Matthews, who has a stockier build but can also bend well and get after the quarterback.
They also added a pair of top-10 CBs in Jorden Edmonds, also out of the Peach State, and in-state Zyan Gibson, who has posted consistent mid-4.4 40s on the camp circuit. The summer success continues into July as the Tide added five-star Jireh Edwards to their secondary. At roughly 6-foot-2 and more than 200 pounds with excellent testing numbers, Edwards can be a physical and versatile defensive back.
Previous ranking: 7
ESPN 300 commits: 13
Top offensive prospect: WR Chris Henry Jr.
Top defensive prospect: S Blaine Bradford
Ryan Day has the luxury of building his 2026 class around one of the most coveted players in the country: five-star receiver Henry, whose father, the late Chris Henry, was a star receiver for West Virginia and the Cincinnati Bengals. Henry Jr. stands 6-6 and has a combination of length and quickness rarely seen from high school receivers.
The rest of the Buckeyes’ class has started to take shape around Henry. The team has added a handful of ESPN 300 prospects since March, including Bradford out of Louisiana and linebacker Simeon Caldwell out of Florida. C.J. Sanna is a prospect we like on tape; he is a big, physical linebacker with excellent range and is a bit of an underrated pickup for this talented class. In-state offensive tackle Maxwell Riley is impressive changing direction and finishes plays with the type of nastiness that will endear him to fans in Columbus.
Previous ranking: 11
ESPN 300 commits: 10
Top offensive prospect: WR Tristen Keys
Top defensive prospect: DT Lamar Brown
The Tigers are tough to beat for in-state talent, and they built the foundation for one of the top classes in the country with homegrown recruits. A great example of that came when they fended off several top suitors, including Texas A&M, and kept top-ranked prospect Lamar Brown at home. Projected to the defensive line, he is an agile and flexible big man who also could excel, if needed, as an offensive lineman.
From outside the state, Tristen Keys from nearby Mississippi delivered Brian Kelly and his staff their first five-star of the 2026 cycle. As of now, the 6-3 Keys would be the highest-rated receiver to make it to Baton Rouge since Kayshon Boutte. Keys is a long strider with long arms who prioritizes winning and is a favorite of coaches and teammates alike.
LSU also added wide receiver Jabari Mack (a strong route runner) and offensive tackle Brysten Martinez, a pair of in-state four-star recruits who bolster a class that now features more than half of the top 10 players from Louisiana. That includes a pair of teammates from Edna Karr High: DT Richard Anderson, a stout presence at more than 300 pounds with good initial quickness, and Aiden Hall, a safety with good length, speed and downhill physicality. Though much of their recruiting success is from within their primary recruiting footprint, the Tigers did go out west to land ESPN 300 CB Havon Finney Jr. A 2027 prospect who reclassified into the 2026 class, he has shown he can be physical in press coverage but also brings excellent speed to be able to run with receivers.
Previous ranking: 8
ESPN 300 commits: 12
Top offensive prospect: QB Brady Smigiel
Top defensive prospect: DE Carter Meadows
The Wolverines signed the No. 1 QB for the 2025 cycle in Bryce Underwood and he carries high expectations, but they continue to add talent to the position and landed ESPN 300 signal-caller Brady Smigiel. The onetime Florida State commit is not only an accurate passer, but he also plays with the confidence and swagger that will be needed battling with five-star Underwood.
After losing two DLs in the first round of the NFL draft, Michigan added several DLs to this class, including ESPN 300 DEs Titan Davis and McHale Blade. Four-star DE Tariq Boney is a player to keep an eye on. He lacks ideal length but can be a well-rounded technician and a quick contributor. In addition to pulling Boney out of the nation’s capital, Michigan also landed Carter Meadows, a rangy edge defender who can bend well.
After scoring from off the beaten path with former standout TE Colston Loveland (Idaho), the Wolverines hope to strike big again from that same region with Matt Ludwig out of Montana. He is a versatile player with good ball skills who can be tough after the catch and fights for yards.
Previous ranking: 9
ESPN 300 commits: 10
Top offensive prospect: OT Jackson Cantwell
Top defensive prospect: LB Jordan Campbell
Despite a rocky finish to the 2024 season, the Hurricanes are trending in the right direction. They’re coming off a 10-win season, former QB Cam Ward was the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft and they’ve reeled in two consecutive top-15 recruiting classes. Mario Cristobal’s 2026 class is working to match or even exceed those groups.
The Hurricanes are adding pieces to field a dominant offensive line. They could lose several projected 2025 starters after this season but are adding big men who can step in and project a bright future in the trenches. In addition to landing the top-rated interior OL in the 2025 class, they have added several OLs to their 2026 class, led by No. 1 tackle Jackson Cantwell. Much like current standout OT Francis Mauigoa, who was a five-star himself and a Year 1 starter, Cantwell could step in at one of the tackle spots upon arriving in South Florida. He is a massive presence at roughly 6-7 and 320 pounds and carries his size well. In addition to being powerful, he possesses good quickness and flexibility, and much like Mauigoa is being projected to be a high NFL draft pick.
QB Dereon Coleman has room for growth but has a quick release and accuracy. The Hurricanes flipped from Georgia a speedy receiving target out of California in Vance Spafford, who won the fastest-man competition last summer at the UA Future 50 event. Four-star Miami native Jordan Campbell is 6-2, 220 pounds with the versatility to make plays in pursuit and the bend and power that portend a potential impact pass rusher. He’s a candidate to take a leap with college coaching.
Previous ranking: 12
ESPN 300 commits: 13
Top offensive prospect: QB Will Griffin
Top defensive prospect: DE JaReylan McCoy
Landing one of the top defenders in the country is the fastest way to climb the recruiting rankings, and that’s exactly what Billy Napier did by securing five-star defensive end JaReylan McCoy. Ranked No. 9 overall and the second-best defender in the ESPN 300, McCoy would be Florida’s highest-rated defensive signee in more than a decade. The 6-foot-7, 260-pound Mississippi native brings elite length, explosive traits and a relentless motor that was on full display at the Under Armour All-America week in January. Beating out LSU and Texas for McCoy marks a major recruiting win for Napier, and McCoy has the potential to develop into one of the SEC’s most feared defensive linemen.
A late close helped the Gators rise in the past cycle, but they’ve ascended much earlier this time around with an active summer. In June they added a pair of dynamic pass catchers in Marquez Daniel and Justin Williams, as well as Georgia running back Carsyn Baker. An early but key pickup was QB Will Griffin, who came on board in June 2024. A big-bodied passer with a strong arm and good accuracy, he could eventually be a nice transition from current QB DJ Lagway. Napier’s staff has also bolstered both lines of scrimmage with several high-upside prospects ranked just outside the ESPN 300, adding critical depth as Florida looks to reassert itself in the SEC.
Previous ranking: 13
ESPN 300 commits: 11
Top offensive prospect: TE Xavier Tiller
Top defensive prospect: CB Chauncey Kennon
Mike Norvell cranked up the heat on Florida State’s 2026 recruiting class this summer. Coming off a 2-10 season that led to a staff overhaul, Norvell’s fresh start pitch is resonating with prospects. A key in-state win was landing rangy top-five CB Chauncey Kennon out of Booker HS in Sarasota.
The Seminoles landed multiple four-star commitments in June, headlined by tight end Xavier Tiller, who checks in at No. 84 on the ESPN 300. A former Texas A&M commit, the 6-foot-5, 215-pound Tiller boasts an 80-inch wingspan, fluid movement skills and the toughness to win contested catches.
Tiller isn’t the only notable pass catcher entering the mix for Florida State. Wide receiver Devin Carter, the son of former Seminoles running back Dexter Carter, is back in the fold after initially flipping to Auburn. He brings explosive short-area quickness and strong bloodlines. Four-star Florida native Brandon Bennett adds another dynamic option.
Norvell also landed a quarterback who could one day get them the ball and tie the class together by flipping Jaden O’Neal, who plays at Mustang High in Oklahoma, from the in-state Sooners. The 6-foot-3 pocket passer ranks No. 166 overall with a good frame, smooth delivery and calm demeanor. If Florida State holds on to O’Neal, he would be the program’s highest-rated quarterback signee since 2022.
Previous ranking: 15
ESPN 300 commits: 11
Top offensive prospect: QB Faizon Brandon
Top defensive prospect: LB Brayden Rouse
Faizon Brandon, a five-star quarterback, is the headliner here, and rightfully so. He’s a strong, accurate passer who fits Tennessee’s offense perfectly. His commitment was big initially but seems even more impactful after the Vols’ well-publicized split with Nico Iamaleava.
In-state four-star receiver Tyreek King (Knoxville Catholic) and Joel Wyatt (Webb School) pair well alongside Brandon. He is a quick, fluid target who has clocked in-game speeds faster than 21 mph. Keep an eye on in-state offensive tackle Gabriel Osenda, who is a massive presence (6-7, 330 pounds) for the Vols to develop.
Tennessee’s in-state success extends to defense with DE Zach Groves. A defender with good quickness and power, he has amassed more than 50 TFLs heading into his senior season. The Vols also bolstered their D-line by landing Dereon Albert out of Mississippi. The 300-pound defender has been a UA Next camp standout two straight years and displays the tools to be a tough, competitive and consistent presence in the trenches. Brayden Rouse, out of Georgia, could contribute at TE but projects to linebacker, where he brings good range and can play well in space and be effective in coverage.
Previous ranking: 14
ESPN 300 commits: 11
Top offensive prospect: OT Leo Delaney
Top defensive prospect: S Kentavion Anderson
Clemson is coming off a College Football Playoff appearance, but the Tigers are still chasing the heights of their mid-2010s success under Dabo Swinney, and their 2025 class ranked just 37th in the country. Their 2026 group is looking more promising, especially after a red-hot March in which Swinney landed eight verbals, including five ESPN 300 commits.
Much of the talent is currently concentrated on offense. Naeem Burroughs is a burner in the 100-meter dash who can take the top off a defense and has a high football IQ. Fellow receiver Connor Salmin is another big-play threat. With some new offensive weapons, the Tigers are making sure they have the time to get the ball downfield by loading up along the offensive line. Delaney, Carter Scruggs, Grant Wise, Adam Guthrie and Chancellor Barclay give the Tigers multiple ESPN 300 OLs to help reload a senior-heavy unit that is projected to lose multiple starters after 2025.
They could one day protect fellow four-star Tait Reynolds, a dual-threat QB out of Arizona who could push to be part of the long-term solution to replace Cade Klubnik. While the foundation of the class is on offense, Anderson is a key in-state pickup on the other side of the ball. With his frame (roughly 6-foot-2, 190 pounds) and range, he can be a versatile back-end defender for the Tigers.
Previous ranking: 17
ESPN 300 commits: 7
Top offensive prospect: WR Keeyun Chapman
Top defensive prospect: CB Jakob Weatherspoon
Unsurprisingly given his ethos, Bill Belichick is building North Carolina’s 2026 class from the inside out. Zavion Griffin-Haynes was a key in-state keep. The aggressive, lengthy edge defender can bolster the Heels’ defensive front with the tools to be a three-down player. Four-star North Carolina defensive tackle Trashawn Ruffin flipped from Texas A&M, and the 300-pounder has plenty of raw physicality to mold. Ruffin is one of several interior linemen in the class that also includes one-time Oregon commit Viliami Moala, a massive 300-pounder who brings not only jolting power but is light on his feet for his size and can be a handful in the heart of the trenches.
The secondary has undergone some changes during this recruiting cycle, but Marcellous Ryan out of California remains and gives UNC a lean but fluid CB to develop. Jakob Weatherspoon out of Ohio was a big flip from Ohio State and is CB with excellent speed. Crew Davis can be a versatile back with the power to run between the tackles, but he also possesses good ball skills. As a junior, he rushed for more than 1,300 yards and also hauled in more than 50 receptions.
In an effort to boost their passing attack, the Heels have added several potential big-play pieces. Quarterback commit Travis Burgess had a strong showing at the Elite 11 finals and jumped into the ESPN 300 after spring evaluations. He displayed steady development including improved accuracy and also has excellent mobility to create with his legs as well. In July they added a pair of ESPN 300 WRs in Keeyun Chapman and Carnell Warren, both of whom are big targets (roughly 6-foot-4) who can run well. Having worked with some excellent TEs in his past, Belichick was able to snare a flip from Tennessee in Carson Sneed, an ESPN 300 TE who can also be a productive target as well as aid the ground game as a tenacious blocker.
Previous ranking: 16
ESPN 300 commits: 6
Top offensive prospect: WR Davion Brown
Top defensive prospect: S Matt Sieg
The Nittany Lions jumped out to a fast start fueled by strong in-state recruiting and have kept that momentum going. Several of their top commits are Pennsylvania natives, including four-star Harrisburg High School teammates Kevin Brown and Messiah Mickens. Brown is a big, flexible offensive tackle, while Mickens has been a productive prep running back, which bodes well for a Penn State program that must finally replace Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton after 2025.
James Franklin also landed in-state athlete David Davis Jr., who has clocked a 20.5 mph max speed and has the cover skills to fit into the back end of a defense one day. While most of the early commits are within Penn State’s primary recruiting radius, the Nittany Lions also landed strong-armed quarterback Troy Huhn out of California. He’s a big body with good feet and brings nice upside. They also went out of state to land a potential big-play target in Davion Brown. Out of Virginia, Brown possesses excellent speed, having been recorded at over 21 mph in game play, and can do a good job of high pointing the football to win contested matchups.
Previous ranking: 18
ESPN 300 commits: 6
Top offensive prospect: OT Kodi Greene
Top defensive prospect: DE Derek Colman-Brusa
Jedd Fisch did an excellent job bringing in talent at Arizona and is now working to retool Washington’s roster and get the Huskies back into the playoff hunt. The Huskies won a key recruiting battle by pulling away Greene, an ESPN 300 OL, from rival Oregon. He is a 300-pounder who moves very well for his size with good quickness and the one-time Washington resident can be a key option in the trenches. The Huskies went east to land their QB in Derek Zammit, a tough, smart player with a smooth, quick release. He should continue to improve with the tools to develop into a productive starter.
Washington landed several commitments in the secondary to address that unit. In-state Elijah Durr has good size at roughly 6 feet and is smooth in his movements. He could develop at cornerback or safety. The Huskies also added a pair of four-star DBs in CB Jeron Jones, who has good speed, and Gavin Day out of Las Vegas, an aggressive safety who tallied more than 100 tackles as a junior.
Previous ranking: 19
ESPN 300 commits: 3
Top offensive prospect: TE Brock Harris
Top defensive prospect: DE Braxton Lindsey
Kalani Sitake’s 2026 class has the potential to be program-defining as BYU builds on the momentum of last year’s 11-win season, which saw the Cougars climb as high as No. 6 in the College Football Playoff rankings. The Cougars currently hold commitments from two top-100 ESPN 300 standouts — tight end Brock Harris and quarterback Ryder Lyons — marking what could be their most highly rated duo of high school signees in the ESPN 300 era dating to 2006).
Harris, a 6-foot-7, 240-pound in-state product, has transformed from a jumbo wideout into one of the nation’s premier tight ends, adding size while retaining his fluid route-running and wide catch radius. He also brings toughness, having competed at the 2025 Under Armour All-America Game with a cast on his hand. If all goes according to plan, Harris will catch plenty of passes from Lyons, a four-star quarterback who won California’s Gatorade Player of the Year award this fall. Lyons’ commitment represents a full-circle win for BYU. The Cougars offered him as an eighth grader and held off the likes of USC and Oregon to secure his commitment.
Another ESPN 300 prospect, two-way lineman Bott Mulitalo, committed in March and could be tasked with protecting Lyons down the road, adding to what has the makings of a historic haul in Provo.
Previous ranking: 20
ESPN 300 commits: 5
Top offensive prospect: OT Evan Goodwin
Top defensive prospect: LB Kenneth Goodwin
The Mustangs charged into the CFP last season and are showing signs they plan to be consistent contenders. Capitalizing on the rich talent base in Texas, they have added several in-state prospects, including ESPN 300 back Christian Rhodes. An explosive runner who has been recorded hitting better than 21 mph in game play, he rushed for more than 1,200 yards as a junior. To help clear running lanes, the Mustangs have added several offensive linemen, including Evan Goodwin, a massive presence at 6-foot-7 and 320 pounds, and in-state guard Drew Evers, a thickly built and strong blocker who can latch on and control defenders.
High three-star Aljour Miles II is another nice in-state add, as he is a lengthy receiver with good quickness and body control. Another receiving target with big-play potential, Jakai Anderson, was pulled out of Louisiana. Not quite as big a target, he brings a good blend of speed and elusiveness and could also be productive in the return game. On defense, the addition of DE Hudson Woods is a big plus. Woods shows some savvy as a pass rusher, with active hands and good bend. LB Kenneth Goodwin out of California can be a physical player with the ability to rush the passer as well as make plays in coverage.
Previous ranking: 21
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: OT Micah Smith
Top defensive prospect: DE Carter Gooden
The DeShaun Foster era got off to a rocky start, but the Bruins are showing some ascension. In recruiting, the former running back knows the importance of a good O-line and pulled a pair of ESPN 300 OLs out of Florida in Micah Smith and Johnnie Jones. Known as Champ, Smith was an Under Armour All-American as a junior and has shown he can play against top competition and be a well-rounded OT. Tight end Camden Jensen should help propel the run game as well, as he is a good blocker.
The Bruins have added multiple WRs in this class, including in-state four-star Kenneth Moore. Onetime SMU commit Yahya Gaad has a sturdy, muscular build with a good initial burst and is a DE who can set the edge and be tough against the run. They further bolstered their D-line by reaching into Massachusetts and pulling out Tabor Academy teammates DE Carter Gooden and DT Marcus Almada, a three-star with active hands who plays with good leverage and is a nice addition along with the four-star Gooden.
Previous ranking: 22
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: ATH Nasir Rankin
Top defensive prospect: DE Kayden Bennett
Good recruiting starts at home, and an early priority for the Fighting Illini was in-state athlete Rankin. A two-sport star who also excels on the hardwood, the ESPN 300 prospect projects to wide receiver, where he can be a playmaker with good hands and the ability to make defenders miss after the catch. Also from in-state, big man Casey Thomann is one of the top OL prospects in Illinois, and three-star Tony Balanganayi is an interesting big man. He projects to the defensive line, where he has shown he can be disruptive, but with more mass could offer higher upside as an OL.
From within the Big Ten footprint, four-star Cam Thomas (Ohio) is a defender with an outstanding first step and could develop into an edge rusher with big upside. Parker Crim brings good arm length, can move well and has shown he can be explosive off the ball. Tony Williams, out of Florida, is a middle linebacker with good instincts and can be a physical presence between the tackles.
Previous ranking: 23
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: WR Calvin Russell
Top defensive prospect: DE Kamron Wilson
The Fran Brown era in Syracuse certainly isn’t boring. He led the Orange to just their second 10-win season since 2001 behind Ohio State transfer Kyle McCord, then landed a solid 2025 recruiting class. Now he’s pushing for more talent in 2026. They surprised many by beating several top programs, including Michigan, for ESPN 300 WR Calvin Russell, a lengthy but smooth target who plans to also play basketball with the Orange.
Four-star defensive end Jarius Rodgers, also out of Florida, is among Brown’s biggest gets so far. The 6-5 220-pounder has tremendous length and an impressive track background. He has considerable physical tools and upside if Syracuse’s coaching staff can harness it. Wilson is another big pull out of Florida; the edge defender has good initial quickness and tallied 17 sacks in 2024.
OT Javeion Cooper has real upside too. He has good size (6-5, 300 pounds) yet plays with impressive balance for someone with his power and contact explosiveness. The Orange also have been active in the mid-Atlantic, landing three receivers from Delaware. Among that group is B.J. Garrett, a big target (6-3, 191 pounds) with good hands who could develop into a player in the mold of Oronde Gadsden, who had similar measurables coming out in the 2021 class.
Previous ranking: 24
ESPN 300 commits: 6
Top offensive prospect: WR Sequel Patterson
Top defensive prospect: S J’Zavien Currence
South Carolina nearly made the College Football Playoff, and Shane Beamer keeps brightening the Gamecocks’ future outlook as well. South Carolina added J’Zavien Currence out of the same high school, South Pointe High School, as former Gamecocks star Jadeveon Clowney. Currence is a versatile defender with his blend of size, versatility and speed. He could stay in the secondary, or if he continues to grow, he could move to linebacker. Also on defense, South Carolina has added several four-star defensive ends, including Keenan Britt. Britt lacks ideal height but has good arm length and initial quickness. He plays with leverage and can be a disruptive presence with his blend of speed and power.
On the heels of a deep and talented 2025 cycle receiver haul, the Gamecocks continue to add young talent to that unit, landing in-state ESPN 300 prospect Sequel Patterson. A multi-sport athlete who can play on either side of the ball, he projects to receiver where he can be a productive target as a quick and sharp route runner. ESPN 300 QB Landon Duckworth, a passer with a strong arm, brings high upside with excellent physical tools to develop. Four-star in-state offensive tackle Zyon Guiles is a 6-foot-5, 295-pound mauler with powerful hands and contact explosiveness, which should bode well even if he’s asked to move inside.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 5
Top offensive prospect: RB Damarius Yates
Top defensive prospect: LB Izayia Williams
The Rebels have relied heavily on the transfer portal, but by no means have turned their back on bringing in young talent. They signed a top-20 class for 2025 as well one of the top 10 newcomer classes for the last cycle. Damarius Yates was a key in-state keep, as he rushed for more than 1,300 yards as a junior for Kemper County and caught 31 passes. He possesses explosive lateral movement with the acceleration to separate from defenders. Corey Barber is a receiver with good speed and can be a vertical threat as well as create plays on jet sweeps.
On defense, Izayia Williams has bounced around with multiple commitments, but if Ole Miss can keep him in the mix, it will have a defender with excellent speed and range. DEs Landon Barnes and Carmelow Reed both need further development but bring good tools. Barnes is out of one of the top programs in Texas (Duncanville) and uses his hands well and can set the edge. Reed has a big frame and possesses good first-step quickness.
Previous ranking: 25
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: OT Felix Ojo
Top defensive prospect: S Donovan Webb
The Red Raiders have been active in the transfer portal, but Joey McGuire & Co. also remain committed to building their roster through high schools. He pulled off a huge in-state win landing five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo. It’s the second time McGuire has landed an in-state five-star prospect (Micah Hudson, 2024). Ojo is lean and needs some further development but has elite length, bends well and brings a high ceiling for development. In-state guard Jerald Mays is another nice addition to that unit, as he is a thickly built lineman with good feet.
While the hope is Hudson will still break out and meet expectations, Tech is adding to the receiver room in four-star Chase Campbell, a target with good speed and body control who has amassed over 160 receptions with 35 TDs between his sophomore and junior years. In-state safety Donovan Webb can close well and has strong ball skills to finish and generate turnovers. He was position MVP at this spring’s UA Dallas camp.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 4
Top offensive prospect: WR Jordan Clay
Top defensive prospect: DE Jamarion Carlton
Baylor picked up a WR with strong ties to the program in London Smith, whose father was a football and basketball star at Baylor and whose mother was a national champion triple jumper for the Bears. Unsurprisingly, London is a quick, smooth target with good body control. Another key add at WR is Jordan Clay, a nice-sized target at close to 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds who also possesses very good body control.
Further capitalizing on in-state talent, Baylor landed ESPN 300 DE Jamarion Carlton and ESPN 300 CB Jamarion Vincent, who possesses coveted size at roughly 6-2 and blends that with good speed and smooth movements.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: WR Dyzier Carter
Top defensive prospect: ATH Chris Hewitt Jr.
The Scarlet Knights have added some top talent to their wide receiver room with Dyzier Carter and Elias Coke, who are longtime commits, having joined the class before the 2024 season started. Carter is a good route runner with strong hands and could be a quick contributor. Coke is a nice target at roughly 6-foot-2.
On defense, Joey Kopec is a two-way player in high school, contributing at RB and LB. He has good range and is effective dropping into coverage. Part of a big June haul, Rinaldo Callaway, out of Georgia, is an interesting addition to keep an eye on. A rangy edge defender, he is raw and needs development but shows a nice ceiling for development and could grow into a disruptive pass rusher. Athlete Chris Hewitt projects to the secondary.
Always active in Florida, the Scarlet Knights landed Reece Beck, a DE with good physical tools, frame, reach and active hands. He can be tough against the run and productive as a pass rusher. They will not need to wait for edge defender Wydeek Collier, a big riser in the 2026 rankings after the spring evaluation period, who reclassified and joined Rutgers’ 2025 class.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: QB Briggs Cherry
Top offensive prospect: S Jaydin Broadnax
Jeff Brohm has raised Louisville’s floor with a 19-8 record and an appearance in the ACC championship game two years ago. His 2026 class has the players to keep the program moving in the right direction. ESPN 300 defensive back Jaydin Broadnax, out of Florida, is the biggest get so far. At nearly 6-foot-3, he has great length, balance and body control for a corner. LB Karsten Busch is a nice addition from within the state who will help on defense. He possesses good size and the ability to be a physical, downhill presence against the run. Sam Dawson is another in-state defensive add. He is a DT with active, heavy hands and good power who can help stuff the run.
QB Briggs Cherry has performed well during in-person evaluations, including winning positional MVP during the UA New Orleans camp in March. The strong-armed passer has risen in the rankings, proving to be a key January pickup.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 3
Top offensive prospect: ATH Ryelan Morris
Top defensive prospect: S Lasiah Jackson
The Cardinal are working to bounce back from a 3-9 campaign and their 2026 class is showing the tools to make future improvements. A key pickup was ESPN 300 athlete Ryelan Morris, a flip from Baylor. At 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds, he is versatile in how he could be utilized within their offense. He is quick with good hands and best projects as a slot receiver, where he can be dangerous after the catch. They beat out programs like Alabama and Florida State for ESPN 300 DB Lasiah Jackson out of Georgia, a defender with good length and range.
Having had a reputation for fielding excellent OLs not long ago, they are looking to rebuild that unit into a strength with several big men committed. Jalayne Miller, out of Arizona, possesses good feet and flexibility, and Blaise Thomassie could be a sleeper add. He performed very well at a loaded UA New Orleans camp between his junior and senior years. He possesses good body quickness, is very good with his hands and could develop at OG or center.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: WR Kortez Rupert
Top defensive prospect: DT Cameron McHaney
Curt Cignetti proved in his first year at Indiana that his program-building skills translate to the Power 4. Now he’s establishing a foundation for sustained success by assembling one of the program’s most promising defensive recruiting classes in recent memory. The Hoosiers have put particular emphasis on the defensive line. Four-star tackle Cameron McHaney, a thickly built interior lineman from IMG Academy, shows initial quickness off the snap and plays with violence and disruption. He projects as a pocket-pusher who can anchor or attack in multiple fronts. Joining him are a pair of four-star defensive ends: Gabe Hill and Kevontay Hugan. Hill, at 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds, pairs an explosive first step with strong hands and a relentless motor. Hugan, another high-upside edge rusher, rounds out a talented group of trench commits.
On offense, a top commit is wide receiver Kortez Rupert, a 5-foot-11, 155-pound speedster from East Saint Louis High, the same program that produced Luther Burden. Rupert isn’t the same caliber of prospect, but he shows impressive burst off the line and could grow into a dangerous slot threat.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: QB Kayd Coffman
Top defensive prospect: DE Fameitau Siale
Under Jonathan Smith, Michigan State is looking to recapture its status among the Big Ten’s upper-tier programs, which has become harder over the past few years. Having an in-state, homegrown signal-caller to shepherd in a new era would certainly inject more enthusiasm into the program. Enter Kayd Coffman, a 6-foot-2, 195-pounder out of East Kentwood High School in Michigan and an ESPN 300 prospect. Coffman has a quick, snappy release with the footwork and mobility to develop into a dynamic passer on the run. Michigan State will have to work to hold on to him — Colorado and Ohio State were among the programs who checked in on Coffman in the spring — but getting him to campus would be a major win.
Michigan State’s other ESPN 300 commit, Tyren Wortham, could be a target for Coffman. At 6 feet, 180 pounds, he’s a lean and fluid receiver who can surge off the ball with sudden quickness. Wortham can sustain that burst too — he ran a 21.91-second 200-meter dash in late March — and competes in games and practices alike with an impressive no-nonsense attitude. He’s one of several pass-catchers already pledged in Michigan State’s class, joining three-stars Samson Gash and Zachary Washington.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 0
Top offensive prospect: OT Bryce Gilmore
Top defensive prospect: LB J.J. Bush
Hot seat talk surrounding head coach Sam Pittman seemed to cool entering the offseason, which will benefit recruiting and help aid a 2026 class that has a solid foundation to build on. Four-star Dequane Prevo out of Texas is a 5-foot-10 receiver that has outstanding balance, body control and short-area burst. Several high-three-star prospects anchor the class, including quarterback Jayvon Gilmore, a tall (6-foot-4) but lean passer with a nice frame to develop. He has a strong arm with a smooth release and was a nice early evaluation and pickup by the Razorbacks.
Colton Yarbrough brings upside at defensive end with good first-step quickness and range. An offensive line coach himself, Pittman has landed in-state big man Tucker Young, who can get push and help create lanes in the run game, and four-star OL Bryce Gilmore, who has good flexibility and range.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OG Marek Jin
Top defensive prospect: DE Mason Leak
Bill O’Brien has injected new life into Boston College, in part by returning the program to its local roots. That has continued so far in 2026, with nearly half of its commits hailing from Massachusetts, Connecticut or New York. One of those prospects is Mason Leak, who is an interesting addition that will likely need developmental time but flashes very good raw tools and could be a breakout player. The Eagles added two promising QBs this cycle as well in Femi Babalola and D.J. Bordeaux. The former has a rangy frame, tested well in offseason camp and possesses a strong, accurate arm. The latter has a smooth release and moves well.
At the program’s height, BC built a reputation for developing NFL-caliber talent, particularly along the offensive line and on defense, and the Eagles are working hard to get back to that level. An early commit from in-state is OT Brady Bekkenhuis, who is a tenacious blocker with upside. Four-star Marek Jin is a flexible OL prospect who plays with good leverage, and with continued development and focus, Jin could be a key contributor in the trenches.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OT Andrew Trout
Top defensive prospect: CB Justin Hopkins
The Gophers are not a class that will be heavy with ESPN 300 commits, but they’re assembling a strong class anchored by a plethora of high three-star prospects. CBs Justin Hopkins and Chance Payne are good examples, as is edge defender Aaden Aytch. A prospect with a lean build, Aytch needs to continue to develop, but he brings a high ceiling as he has good length, displays wiry strength, can redirect well and be a factor in pursuit.
Beefing up the offensive line, they have several commits, led by Andrew Trout, the No. 1 player in the state and an ESPN 300 OT. Another key in-state keep was Roman Voss, who was also pursued by Alabama. Listed as an athlete, he has experience as a QB, but projects to TE and can be a versatile weapon for the Minnesota offense.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: ATH Damon Ferguson
Top defensive prospect: OLB Reston Lehman
Pat Narduzzi and Pittsburgh haven’t secured multiple ESPN 300 commits in one class since 2021. If things hold, that’s set to change in 2026. The Panthers landed commitments from a pair of four-stars: outside linebacker Reston Lehman, out of Pennsylvania, and athlete Damon Ferguson. Lehman has solid size at 6-foot-3, 230 pounds and has the versatility to get after quarterbacks off the edge but also drop into coverage. He’s comfortable tracking the quarterback as a pass rusher and has already begun to show the makings of multiple pass-rush moves. He’s one of several intriguing linebacker additions, alongside three-star outside linebacker Isaiah Simmons and three-star inside linebacker Desmond Johnson out of Miami.
Pitt hasn’t produced a 1,000-yard rusher since Israel Abanikanda in 2022. Ferguson certainly has the raw tools to change that. The Maryland native is a quick runner who can change direction without skipping a beat and runs low to the ground. His suddenness and speed make him an attractive option in the pass game too and could even translate to work in the defensive secondary if needed.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OT Kaden Snyder
Top defensive prospect: S J.J. Dunnigan
Lance Leipold is no stranger to building a program and is working to fortify Kansas’ 2026 class. At 6-foot-3, 190 pounds, in-state defensive back J.J. Dunnigan has the length to reroute receivers off the line and the straight-line speed to hang with them on vertical routes. The Jayhawks have a few offensive linemen committed, led by 6-foot-5 Kansas native Kaden Snyder, who has an enticing combination of athleticism, pass-protection skills and upside if he can continue to fill out his frame.
The Jalon Daniels era enters its sixth and final season in 2025. In-state three-star commit Jaylen Mason is an intriguing developmental option at QB.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: RB Victor Santino
Top defensive prospect: DE Camron Brooks
In Justin Wilcox’s eight seasons, Cal has been steady, albeit unspectacular, never losing more than eight games but never winning more than eight. If the Golden Bears’ 2026 class is any indication, their coaching staff certainly isn’t leaving any stone unturned in their pursuit to raise the ceiling of the program. Their lone ESPN 300 recruit, defensive end Camron Brooks, hails from Georgia and picked Cal after taking visits to Clemson, Florida State and Ohio State. At 6-foot-3, 230 pounds, Brooks has excellent length and initial burst. He’s one of two players from Thomas County Central High School who have committed to Cal in the class, joining interior lineman Artem Korchagin.
Cal also dipped into Hawai’i to land four prospects: tight end Taimane Purcell, offensive guard Kamo’i Huihui-White, quarterback Nainoa Lopes and offensive tackle Esaiah Wong. The Bears even tapped into the NFL Academy’s European program, landing tight end Luca Wolf out of London, who stands an impressive 6-foot-6, 240 pounds. The class could gel around in-state quarterback Brady Palmer, a three-star pocket passer out of San Diego. He’s a poised, accurate passer who has enough athleticism to extend plays and has been a frequent competitor on the camp circuit.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: QB Oscar Rios
Top defensive prospect: DE Prince Williams
Arizona’s program has oscillated between incredible highs, winning 10 games two seasons ago and sending Tetairoa McMillan to the NFL, and painful lows, with a four-win campaign in Brent Brennan’s first season. One of the few constants amid plenty of program upheaval has been quarterback Noah Fifita, who is sixth in program history in passing yards (5,955) and seventh in touchdowns (44). Arizona’s 2026 class could have Fifita’s successor.
The Wildcats landed a commitment from four-star California native Oscar Rios in late June. An ESPN 300 QB, Rios has developed from a tall, lanky underclassman into a strong-armed, confident passer capable of driving the ball vertically while winning over teammates and coaches with his competitive demeanor. Landing Rios was a big win, and Arizona continued the momentum in early July, landing a commitment from fellow four-star Prince Williams. The Bishop Gorman defensive end stands 6-foot-2, 255 pounds and doesn’t back down from larger offensive tackles, nor does he cede reps in camp settings. He has the type of competitive nature and versatility a defensive line room can rally around. That duo forms an impressive foundation for Arizona to continue building out its 2026 class.
Previous ranking: NR
ESPN 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OG Vincent Johnson Jr.
Top defensive prospect: DE Jesse Ford
After taking a step back in 2024, TCU is prioritizing reinforcements along its defensive front in 2026 as it tries to get back to College Football Playoff contention under Sonny Dykes. The Horned Frogs added several in-state defensive linemen, led by ESPN 300 defensive end Jesse Ford. He has been a productive, disruptive presence at 6-foot-5, 230 pounds, with an impressive first step and room to keep packing weight onto his frame.
They also addressed the other side of the ball by landing several high-three-star OLs, including Vincent Johnson Jr. and Devan Robison, who moves and bends well and should only improve with time in the Horned Frogs’ strength and conditioning program. QB commit Jack Daulton completed 73% of his passes as a junior and on film shows he can be an effective runner as well.
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Adam Rittenberg
BOULDER, Colo. — Colorado coach Deion Sanders said he feels “healthy and vibrant” after returning to the field for preseason practices after undergoing surgery to remove his bladder after a cancerous tumor was found.
Sanders, 57, said he has been walking at least a mile around campus following Colorado’s practices, which began last week. He was away from the team for the late spring and early summer following the surgery in May. Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urological oncology at University of Colorado Cancer Center, said July 30 that Sanders, who lost about 25 pounds during his recovery, is “cured of cancer.”
“I’m healthy, I’m vibrant, I’m my old self,” Sanders said. “I’m loving life right now. I’m trying my best to live to the fullest, considering what transpired.”
Sanders credited Colorado’s assistant coaches and support staff for overseeing the program during his absence. The Pro Football Hall of Famer enters his third season as Buffaloes coach this fall.
“They’ve given me tremendous comfort,” Sanders said. “I never had to call 100 times and check on the house, because I felt like the house is going to be OK. That’s why you try your best to hire correct, so you don’t have to check on the house night and day. They did a good job, especially strength and conditioning.”
Colorado improved from four to nine wins in Sanders’ second season, but the team loses Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, the No. 2 pick in April’s NFL draft, as well as record-setting quarterback Shedeur Sanders, the son of Deion Sanders. The Buffaloes have an influx of new players, including quarterbacks Kaidon Salter and Julian “Ju Ju” Lewis, who are competing for the starting job, as well as new staff members such as Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Marshall Faulk, who is coaching the Buffaloes’ running backs.
Despite the changes and his own health challenges, Deion Sanders expects Colorado to continue ascending. The Buffaloes open the season Aug. 29 when they host Georgia Tech.
“The next phase is we’re going to win differently, but we’re going to win,” Sanders said. “I don’t know if it’s going to be the Hail Mary’s at the end of the game, but it’s going to be hell during the game, because we want to be physical and we want to run the heck out of the football.”
Sanders said it will feel “a little weird, a little strange” to not be coaching Shedeur when the quarterback starts his first NFL preseason game for the Cleveland Browns on Friday night at Carolina. Deion Sanders said he and Shedeur had spoken several times Friday morning. Despite being projected as a top quarterback in the draft, Shedeur Sanders fell to the fifth round.
“A lot of people are approaching it like a preseason game, he’s approaching like a game, and that’s how he’s always approached everything, to prepare and approach it like this is it,” Deion Sanders said. “He’s thankful and appreciative of the opportunity. He don’t get covered in, you know, all the rhetoric in the media.
“Some of the stuff is just ignorant. Some of it is really adolescent, he far surpasses that, and I can’t wait to see him play.”
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