No Rangers deal yet for García; Robertson official
ARLINGTON, Texas — The World Series champion Texas Rangers finalized deals Friday with veteran reliever David Robertson and outfielder Travis Jankowski, but still have no agreement with AL Championship Series MVP Adolis García in advance of salary arbitration hearings.
Robertson will get $10 million in 2024 and has a mutual option for $7 million in 2025 that includes a $1.5 million buyout. The speedy and versatile Jankowski, who led the Rangers last season with 19 stolen bases, got a one-year deal for $1.7 million.
García was the only of eight Rangers eligible for salary arbitration who didn’t reach a deal with the team two weeks ago. The two-time All-Star slugger, who set an MLB postseason record with 22 RBI last fall, requested $6.9 million and Texas offered $5 million. That was the widest gap among the 23 players around the league who exchanged salary proposals with their teams.
“Everybody knows the situation we’re in. Right now, we’re waiting on the hearing that’s coming, and everything’s been the same as of right now,” García said through a translator before the team’s annual awards dinner Friday night.
General manager Chris Young said there has been good dialogue with García and his representatives, and described being “very encouraged by the back and forth.”
Robertson’s deal was finalized after he completed a physical. He has pitched for five teams since coming back from Tommy John surgery that caused him to miss the pandemic-shortened 2020 season and much of 2021. He made 120 appearances over the past two seasons.
The right-hander has pitched for seven teams in his 15 big league seasons, the first seven with the New York Yankees. He has been to the playoffs nine times, winning the 2009 World Series with the Yankees and the 2022 National League pennant with the Phillies. He is 63-42 with 175 saves and a 2.90 ERA in 793 regular-season games, along with a 6-0 record and 3.04 ERA in 42 postseason games.
Jankowski hit .263 with a career-high 30 RBI in 107 games last season. His 63 starts were spread among all three outfield spots.
Texas traded outfielder J.P. Martínez to Atlanta for minor league right-hander Tyler Owens, and designated for assignment right-handed pitcher Daniel Duarte to make room on the 40-man roster.
García will get a large raise no matter what happens. The Cuban outfielder, who turns 31 in March, was eligible for salary arbitration for the first time after making $747,760 last season when he set career highs with 39 homers and 107 RBI. He had 27 homers and 101 RBI in 2022.
Asked about reconciling the business of baseball, García responded in English.
“It’s hard for me because you know how I play, everybody know me. I just go out there and try to and try every time to get the win for the team,” he said. “Try to be a good teammate and sometimes I cannot understand how this works. But just a little bit disappointed. But it is what it is. I’m here to help the club, be the same guy.”
García said he didn’t know if there was a chance to avoid a hearing. The Rangers haven’t been to one since 2000 with designated hitter Lee Stevens.
An emotional leader with a big bat for the Rangers, García hit .357 with five homers and 15 RBI in the ALCS against Houston. He went deep in five consecutive postseason games, including his 11th-inning winner in Game 1 of the World Series against Arizona. But he missed the last two World Series games with an oblique issue.
“I feel good,” García said through a translator, adding he took about a month off after the season before resuming workouts. “Still very happy and proud of what the team was able to accomplish, and looking forward to next (season) and helping my team repeat it.”
Another week of MLB Power Rankings means another week of Milwaukee atop our list, as the Brewers are still rolling along as the best team in baseball, though might be slowing down after dropping three of four games to the division rival Cubs.
Sitting at least five games behind the Brewers in the National League standings are the Phillies, Dodgers and Cubs, who are all neck and neck as the battle for playoff positioning begins and we approach the stretch run. The four powerhouse NL teams all reside in our top six.
Meanwhile, in the American League, two juggernauts have continued to set themselves apart: Detroit and Toronto. The Tigers, who jumped back into the top three this week, are a game and a half up on the Blue Jays, who round out our top five. And after a slight slump following the trade deadline, the Yankees seem to have found their footing once again as they attempt to cut into Toronto’s division lead.
Our expert panel has ranked every team based on a combination of what we’ve seen and what we already knew going into the 162-game marathon that is a full baseball season. We also asked ESPN MLB experts Bradford Doolittle, Jorge Castillo and David Schoenfield to weigh in with an observation for all 30 teams.
Week 20 | Second-half preview | Preseason rankings
Record: 79-48
Previous ranking: 1
Milwaukee’s lead over Philadelphia in the race for the NL’s top seed is at five games despite the Brewers dropping three in a row in Chicago, giving them around an 82% shot at landing the coveted No. 1 slot. It’s a good omen. Milwaukee has entered the postseason as a 1-seed twice, both times parlaying it into deep playoff runs. In 1982, the Brewers won the AL pennant and, in their only World Series appearance, took the Cardinals to seven games. In 2018, Milwaukee was the NL’s No. 1 and took the Dodgers to a seventh game in the National League Championship Series. — Doolittle
Record: 74-53
Previous ranking: 2
Although the main concern is certainly Zack Wheeler’s health, his potential season-ending blood clot will test the depth of the Phillies’ rotation. Aaron Nola‘s return Sunday didn’t go well, but Ranger Suarez broke out of a mini-slump with a strong outing Monday (his first 10-strikeout, no-walk game) and Cristopher Sanchez continued to show he deserves Cy Young consideration with a 12-strikeout performance Tuesday. Oh, and a first for Bryce Harper in Monday’s win: He hit his longest home run since 2023 in the first inning and then topped that distance later in the game with a 448-foot blast, becoming the first Phillies player with two 440-foot home runs in the same game (and the first in the majors this season) since Statcast began in 2015. — Schoenfield
Record: 76-53
Previous ranking: 5
Tarik Skubal continued to solidify his case for a second straight AL Cy Young Award by twirling seven scoreless innings Tuesday against the Astros. He struck out 10 batters, becoming the first pitcher to reach 200 strikeouts this season. The left-hander has a 2.32 ERA in 159⅓ innings across 25 starts. He leads major league starters in FIP and fWAR. Garrett Crochet and Hunter Brown have enjoyed stellar seasons, but it’s Skubal’s award to lose. — Castillo
Record: 72-55
Previous ranking: 4
Eighteen years into his MLB career, Clayton Kershaw continues to be a marvel. Through 15 starts, he has gone 7-2, raising his career victory total to 219. His 3.01 ERA translates to a 139 ERA+, not quite peak Kershaw but numbers any team would love to have in its rotation. He has done this with plain old pitching, as his once elite strikeout rate continues its ongoing deterioration. Kershaw’s rate of 5.7 whiffs per nine innings is down 1.5 from last season and is nearly four whiffs shy of his career average. It’s less than half his peak result of 11.6 in 2015. — Doolittle
Record: 74-54
Previous ranking: 3
The Blue Jays received a scare this week when Vladimir Guerrero Jr. left Monday’s game with a hamstring injury after stretching to make a play at first base. An MRI showed just inflammation, a positive development considering the possibilities, but it’s something they will have to monitor down the stretch. Guerrero is Toronto’s $500 million franchise cornerstone. He has been one of the best hitters in the sport again this season, batting .298 with 21 home runs and an 0.894 OPS in 124 games. Losing him for an extended stretch could torpedo the Jays’ World Series hopes. — Castillo
Record: 73-54
Previous ranking: 7
If there is a bright side to the Cubs’ second-half woes on offense it’s that it might shine a light on a pitching staff that has been a little underrated all season. And it has remained solid even during Chicago’s post-break downturn. Though the team ERA (3.81, 11th in MLB) is more good than great and its ERA+ (100) indicates league-average pitching, the Cubs’ run distribution tells a story of consistency. Chicago has held opponents to three runs or fewer 70 times this season, most in baseball. The Cubs’ record in those games: 57-13. — Doolittle
Record: 71-56
Previous ranking: 8
The Padres’ deadline-fortified offense hasn’t performed much differently since the additions of Ramon Laureano, Freddy Fermin and Ryan O’Hearn. The Padres are fourth in OBP in August and remain the toughest club to strike out. San Diego is 22nd in runs on the season, mostly because it ranks 29th in homers. The Padres’ diverse attack has been less reliant on homers for scoring than any team in baseball. The question for October remains: When the playoffs arrive and the ability to string together hits becomes more challenging, will a shortfall of home runs prove to be San Diego’s fatal flaw? — Doolittle
Record: 69-57
Previous ranking: 12
The Yankees are scariest with Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton both in the lineup — just look at Tuesday’s home run barrage in Tampa. But that won’t happen every day until Judge recovers enough from his flexor strain to be cleared to return to the outfield. When that will happen remains unclear. Judge increased his throwing to 150 feet this week, which qualifies as a positive development, but a return date to right field has not been publicly set.
For now, Judge is the Yankees’ every-day designated hitter, which means Stanton, who is 35 and doesn’t move well, has to play right field to be in the lineup. The Yankees are making it work, but getting Judge cleared to play the outfield — even just occasionally, if not every day — could make a significant difference. — Castillo
Record: 69-58
Previous ranking: 9
The Astros had one of the best bullpens in the first half, but that group has struggled since the All-Star break with an ERA over 5.00 — and now will be without Josh Hader until at least late September, as he’ll shut down for three weeks to rest his shoulder. He said he is hopeful about returning for the postseason. Meanwhile, the Astros were shut out three games in a row (and four of their past five games), including back-to-back losses of 12-0 and 10-0 to the Orioles and Tigers, respectively. Good news on that front: Yordan Alvarez began his rehab assignment Tuesday. — Schoenfield
Record: 68-60
Previous ranking: 6
The highs of an eight-game winning streak were immediately followed by a tough road trip to Baltimore, New York (with a pit stop in Williamsport) and Philadelphia. Logan Gilbert‘s implosion Monday symbolizes the problems the rotation has had all season on the road. Only Bryan Woo has an ERA under 4.92 away from T-Mobile Park, and Gilbert saw his road ERA climb to 6.00 after his recent outing. He has allowed a .141 average at home but .293 on the road. Woo, meanwhile, saw his streak of six-inning starts continue, as he has now gone at least six innings in all 24 of his outings. — Schoenfield
Record: 68-59
Previous ranking: 10
The Red Sox had won 16 of 18 games at Fenway Park before dropping three straight to the Marlins and Orioles to close their recent homestand. Overall, Boston is 41-25 at home — with 10 walk-off wins — and 27-34 on the road. The club’s surge into the postseason picture since the end of June has been fueled by its play at home in front of an invigorated fan base that has quickly forgotten about the franchise’s surprising decision to trade Rafael Devers in mid-June. The emergence of 21-year-old Roman Anthony has helped. But an eight-game road trip to New York and Baltimore awaits, and the Red Sox will need to play better away from Fenway to hold on to a wild-card spot. — Castillo
Record: 67-59
Previous ranking: 11
The Mets temporarily broke out of their deep slump by taking two of three against Seattle, including winning the Little League Classic on Sunday night, with Mark Vientos slugging a key three-run home run to the opposite field. But the biggest lift came Saturday as rookie Nolan McLean made his MLB debut and looked very impressive in striking out eight batters in 5⅔ scoreless innings. He showed off his deep repertoire of pitches — Statcast classified six different pitches — and though he’ll have to clean up his command (four walks), he could make a big impact down the stretch. — Schoenfield
Record: 67-61
Previous ranking: 13
Cue the old Pete Rose-Bud Harrelson highlights because the Reds have fought their way into a scuffle with the Mets for the NL’s last playoff spot. Cincinnati hasn’t really gotten red-hot, but it has been winning series while increasing its playoff odds. The Reds won two of three against the Mets at Citi Field in July. The clubs have a key return series at Great American Ball Park looming after Labor Day, a three-game set beginning Sept. 5. Buckle up. — Doolittle
Record: 64-62
Previous ranking: 14
The Guardians, once eight games under .500 in early July, are within striking distance of a wild-card spot — despite closer Emmanuel Clase going on leave on July 28 as part of a sports gambling investigation — because their bullpen remains elite. Cleveland’s relief corps ranks fourth in the majors with a 3.07 ERA and eighth in Win Probability Added in Clase’s absence. Cade Smith has continued dazzling as the club’s primary closer with a 2.13 ERA across 12⅔ innings — though he blew the save in Wednesday’s extra-inning loss — and rookie left-hander Erik Sabrowski hasn’t allowed a run in 7⅔ frames. — Castillo
Record: 65-62
Previous ranking: 18
On Tuesday, Bobby Witt Jr. became the fourth player in major league history to register at least 100 home runs and 100 steals through his first four seasons, joining Julio Rodriguez, Darryl Strawberry and Bobby Bonds. The feat serves as a reminder of Witt’s elite abilities, which have gone under the radar this year after finishing as AL MVP runner-up last season. Witt, rather quietly, is third in the majors in fWAR while batting .291 with 17 home runs, 32 steals and a .843 OPS and ranking second among big-league shortstops in Outs Above Average. He’s the complete package. — Castillo
Record: 63-65
Previous ranking: 15
The August slump continues as the Rangers have dropped well off in the wild-card race and seen their playoff chances dip to under 10%. The pitching, which had been so good all season, finally broke a little and posted a 5.66 ERA during a 2-9 recent stretch. Phil Maton, acquired at the trade deadline, lost back-to-back games, and fellow reliever Danny Coulombe, another deadline pickup, also lost a game. Joc Pederson continues to get regular at-bats for some reason, and Marcus Semien, after hitting better in June and July, is scuffling again. The Astros and Mariners haven’t quite slammed the door on Texas, but time is running out. — Schoenfield
Record: 61-66
Previous ranking: 19
Steinbrenner Field doesn’t belong to the Rays, and they were reminded of that fact Tuesday when the Yankees tied a franchise record with nine home runs in a 13-3 win at their own spring training facility. Tampa Bay’s Shane Baz gave up five of the homers in three innings, continuing his misery at the homer-happy ballpark. The right-hander’s numbers at Steinbrenner Field are abysmal: 7.06 ERA, .888 OPS against and 18 home runs allowed in 13 outings. All rank worst in the majors among pitchers with at least 60 innings at home this season. — Castillo
Record: 61-66
Previous ranking: 17
As the Giants’ once-promising season has settled into yawn-inducing mediocrity, we can identify when the wave broke and what has happened since it rolled back. The high point was June 11, when San Francisco beat Colorado for a seventh straight win to go a season-best 12 games over .500. The Giants were a half-game back of the Dodgers in the division race and topped the early wild-card standings. The Giants were on pace to score 684 runs and allow 567. Those paces are now 656 runs scored and 662 allowed. A slight decline offensively, but a collapse on the pitching side. — Doolittle
Record: 63-65
Previous ranking: 16
The Cardinals have neither played well nor bottomed out. Instead, they remain muddled in the average-to-below strata of MLB. This continues the ongoing malaise of a franchise and a fan base accustomed to a higher standard. If the Cardinals win fewer than 89 games — a virtual certainty — their three-year winning percentage will dip below .500 for the first time this century. After the 1999 season, their three-year mark was down to .475, but they then won 96 games in 2000 to move back over .500. They have kept their rolling average above breakeven ever since until, likely, this season. — Doolittle
Record: 62-66
Previous ranking: 21
The Diamondbacks are tied for fourth in the majors in scoring and rank sixth in OPS during August. It’s a small sample but an encouraging one in the aftermath of Arizona’s deadline subtractions of key hitters Josh Naylor and Eugenio Suarez. On the flip side, venerable infield prospect Jordan Lawlar hasn’t had a chance to take advantage of Suarez’s departure because of a lingering hamstring strain. Good news on that front: Lawlar returned to action at the Triple-A level Aug. 14 and should be in position for his first MLB game action since last May before long. — Doolittle
Record: 61-66
Previous ranking: 22
What’s the long-term fix for the Angels? They’ll need to find a way to develop starting pitchers who can strike out some batters. They rank near the bottom of the majors in rotation strikeout rate, with Kyle Hendricks and Jack Kochanowicz possessing two of the lowest K rates among starters. The other problem is the rotation ranks similarly in walk rate, so the Angels compound their lack of swing-and-miss stuff with too many free passes. Other than 2025 first-round pick Tyler Bremner, there might not be much immediate help on the farm as top pitching prospects George Klassen (6.55 ERA in Double-A) and Caden Dana (injuries) have had unproductive seasons. — Schoenfield
Record: 59-67
Previous ranking: 24
Samuel Basallo has arrived, and the early returns are downright thrilling for the organization. The top prospect became the youngest position player to appear in a game in the majors this season when he made his debut Sunday in Houston at 21 years and 4 days old. He proceeded to go 1-for-4 with two RBIs and had a home run robbed as Baltimore’s designated hitter in a 12-0 win over the Astros. He then made his catching debut Monday against the Red Sox and blasted two rockets, including one off the Green Monster for his first career extra-base hit.
At 6-foot-4, Basallo can mash. The question is whether he will remain behind the plate or shift to first base with Adley Rutschman entrenched as the Orioles’ primary catcher. A move to first is likely. — Castillo
Record: 60-67
Previous ranking: 20
The Marlins have faded out of the wild-card picture with a tough August, but one bright spot has been outfielder Jakob Marsee, who was called up Aug. 1. The left-handed hitter had a two-homer, seven-RBI game and has showcased an above-average contact rate and good plate discipline so far. Part of last year’s Luis Arraez trade with the Padres, Marsee was hitting just .246 in Triple-A (after hitting .200 in the minors in 2024), so we’ll see if the bat is legit, but he has been scoring the ball so far. And though his speed is only a tick above average, he did have 47 steals in the minors as well. — Schoenfield
Record: 58-69
Previous ranking: 25
Shortstop will undoubtedly be at the top of the offseason shopping list for the Braves. Nick Allen has been one of the top defensive shortstops in the league, but his complete lack of production at the plate — no home runs plus a low batting average — has helped crater the offense. If the rest of the lineup was hitting, you could play him, but the rest of the lineup hasn’t hit as expected. The free agent shortstop class is thin aside from Bo Bichette, but Bichette is at the bottom of the league in Statcast’s defensive metrics. — Schoenfield
Record: 58-68
Previous ranking: 23
The Pohlad family isn’t selling the Twins after all. In a statement released last week, the family announced it will remain the principal owner of the club and will add new investors. The decision surfaced two weeks after the Twins traded 10 players from their 26-man active roster ahead of the trade deadline as they head to their lowest attendance total since Target Field opened in 2010. — Castillo
Record: 58-70
Previous ranking: 26
Nick Kurtz‘s home run rate has dropped since his four-homer game, but he has still been hitting .300 with an OBP over .400 as his walk rate continues to climb, in part because pitchers simply aren’t challenging him as often. He should get to 502 plate appearances by season’s end, which will make him an official qualified hitter. If he finishes with an OPS over 1.000, he’ll join Albert Pujols and Aaron Judge as the only rookies to do so since World War II. — Schoenfield
Record: 54-74
Previous ranking: 27
How bad has Pittsburgh’s offense been this season? Well, the Pirates are on pace to score just 570 runs this season. That would be their worst output over an uninterrupted season since 1985, when they scored 568 runs while losing 104 games. That was the season before Barry Bonds’ MLB debut. The Pirates, whose pitchers have ranked in the top half by ERA+ all season after finishing at exactly league-average in 2024, would see a drop-off of nearly 100 runs over 2024 if they retain this pace. Their 665 runs last season ranked 24th in MLB. — Doolittle
Record: 45-82
Previous ranking: 28
Where was this Luis Robert Jr. over the season’s first three months? That’s a question the White Sox front office has to be asking after the talented center fielder sank his trade value with dismal production through the beginning of July before turning things around to resemble the player the club envisioned him to be. Robert was batting .185 with a .583 OPS in 75 games through July 9. Since then, he is hitting .300 with a .833 OPS in 30 games. With $20 million team options each of the next two years — and the White Sox mired in a deep rebuild — he will be a prime trade candidate this winter if he continues on this trajectory down the stretch. — Castillo
Record: 51-75
Previous ranking: 29
Dylan Crews is finally off the IL, playing his first MLB games since May 20. His 13-game rehab stint in Triple-A wasn’t promising, as he hit .244/.311/.415 with one walk in 45 plate appearances, but he’ll certainly get regular duty in the outfield the rest of this season. Crews still has barely 300 PAs in the majors, but it’s time he starts showing something so the Nationals can count on him for 2026. As one of the most hyped collegiate players in recent years and the No. 2 pick in 2023, they clearly need him to develop into a foundational piece of the roster. — Schoenfield
Record: 37-90
Previous ranking: 30
The Rockies have been easy targets for derision, but they’ve strung together a long enough stretch of decent baseball to give the barb throwers a week off. Don’t get us wrong — this is still a team on pace to lose 115 to 116 games and allow more than 1,000 runs. But the offense has been less bad lately, giving Colorado a good shot at avoiding the single-season loss record. Since the All-Star break, the Rockies rank in the top half of the majors in runs and OPS. Coors Field inflation plays into that, of course, but earlier this season, the Rockies weren’t hitting there, either. Progress? — Doolittle
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Craig Haubert
The 2025 college football season is upon us, so it’s time for past top prospects to step up and make their mark.
While the focus shifts to the field and very few ESPN 300 prospects remain uncommitted, the recruiting wheel keeps on spinning and has resulted in some movers, including a new entry into our updated top 40 rankings.
And, of course, recruiting is always full of unexpected twists and turns, so the race for positioning in the rankings, including at the very top, never seems settled until signing day in December makes it all official.
New this ranking: Oklahoma
Out: TCU
(Previous update: Aug. 8)
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: 18
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: 6
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: 7
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: 8
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: 9
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: 10
ESPN 300 commits: 13
Top offensive prospect: RB Savion Hiter
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. Michigan further bolstered its backfield by landing No. 2 RB Savion Hiter, a runner with a nice blend of size (6 feet, 200 pounds), power and speed who can also catch the ball well.
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: 12
ESPN 300 commits: 14
Top offensive prospect: ATH Davian Groce
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: 11
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: 13
ESPN 300 commits: 12
Top offensive prospect: TE Xavier Tiller
Top defensive prospect: LB Izayia Williams
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 High School in Sarasota. LB Izayia Williams has bounced around with multiple commitments, including a previous commitment to the Seminoles, but if they can keep him in the mix, their defense will add a player with excellent speed and range.
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 a strong football background. 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: 16
ESPN 300 commits: 8
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: 14
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: 15
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: 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 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: 26
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: 27
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: 3
Top offensive prospect: QB Bowe Bentley
Top defensive prospect: DE Jake Kreul
Oklahoma’s 2026 recruiting class might be middle of the pack so far in the SEC, but it’s anchored by one of the top quarterback prospects in the country. Bowe Bentley, a four-star signal-caller from Celina (Texas) High, gives the Sooners a dynamic player around whom to build. Bentley is a dual-threat passer who pairs impressive production with the kind of arm talent, mobility and leadership — not to mention a bit of improvisation — that can shape a class.
Bentley is one of several four-stars currently in the group. He’s joined by wide receiver Daniel Odom out of St. John Bosco (Calif.). The 6-foot-2, 190-pound target has length, runs polished routes and has deceptive speed off the line. Oklahoma has layered in a slew of signings along the offensive and defensive fronts, including Brian Harris, a 6-3, 280-pounder out of Florida. He’s a disruptive interior run defender with an impressive motor. Another key addition out of Florida — and a big boost to the class overall — was five-star DE Jake Kreul, who brings an explosive first step, good bend and a relentless motor and should be able to work his way into the mix in Year 1.
Previous ranking: 28
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: 29
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: 30
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: 31
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: 32
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: 33
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: 34
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: 35
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: 25
ESPN 300 commits: 4
Top offensive prospect: RB Damarius Yates
Top defensive prospect: DE Landon Barnes
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, 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: 36
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: 37
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: 38
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: 39
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.
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