The Sky's the Limit: Early Favorites for the 2026 Heisman Trophy

Introduction

The race for the 2026 Heisman Trophy is already heating up, and while the echoes of the past season's glory still resonate, it's time to cast our eyes toward the future. With the outstanding performances of players like Indiana's Fernando Mendoza—who delivered an awe-inspiring 13-0 season for the Hoosiers—there's a new wave of talent ready to take center stage. This early look at the Heisman hopefuls highlights those players who could redefine what it means to be a college football star.

Fernando Mendoza: The 2025 Champion

Before I delve into the candidates for next year, let's take a moment to appreciate what Mendoza achieved. His remarkable 71.5% completion rate, paired with 2,980 yards and 39 touchdowns, made him the standout choice for the 2025 Heisman. His leadership transformed the Hoosiers, culminating in their first national title. As Mendoza transitions to the NFL, the stage is set for a thrilling new competition among the next crop of contenders.

The Contenders for 2026

With Mendoza off to the professional ranks, a plethora of young talent is ready to seize the opportunity. Here is my rundown of the leading candidates for the next Heisman Trophy:

Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State

2025 Stats: 87 catches, 1,243 receiving yards, 12 total touchdowns

Smith's catching ability showcases an extraordinary blend of speed and skill. His ascent to stardom was punctuated by becoming the fastest Buckeye to hit career milestones, which speaks volumes about his talent and potential.

Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State

2025 Stats: 78.4% completion rate, 3,323 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, 6 interceptions

Sayin's first year as a starter ended in a narrow championship loss; however, his prowess on the field and near-record completion rate make him a compelling candidate for the 2026 Heisman Trophy. A clean season could see him rewrite history.

Dante Moore, QB, Oregon

2025 Stats: 3,565 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, 10 interceptions

Moore's decision to stay in college has made waves, and he remains a key player for Oregon's championship aspirations. His explosive performance last season has positioned him as a serious contender, ready to make the NFL scouts take notice.

Gunner Stockton, QB, Georgia

2025 Stats: 69.7% completion rate, 2,894 passing yards, 34 total touchdowns

Stockton's resilience paid dividends as he led Georgia to an SEC title, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities that could make him a household name in the upcoming season.

Malachi Toney, WR, Miami

2025 Stats: 109 catches, 1,211 receiving yards

Recognized as “Baby Jesus” by his teammates, Toney's breakout freshman year sets him apart as someone to watch closely. His numbers alone justify his inclusion in this elite conversation.

Arch Manning, QB, Texas

2025 Stats: 61.4% completion rate, 3,163 passing yards, 32 total touchdowns

Manning faces immense pressure due to his family legacy, but his solid performance last season demonstrates that he's ready to write his own chapter in college football history.

Kewan Lacy, RB, Ole Miss

2025 Stats: 1,567 rushing yards, 24 touchdowns

Lacy's integral role in Ole Miss' historic season showcases his explosive running capabilities. His performances are turning heads, and he could easily emerge as a significant contender.

Ahmad Hardy, RB, Missouri

2025 Stats: 1,649 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns

Hardy turned heads last season with his multiple 100-yard games, including a phenomenal 300-yard performance. His explosiveness places him among the prime candidates.

Demond Williams Jr., QB, Washington

2025 Stats: 69.5% completion rate, 3,065 passing yards, 611 rushing yards

His dual-threat capabilities have elevated his status as one of the best quarterbacks in the FBS. Williams' exhilarating gameplay ensures that he will be a factor in the 2026 Heisman race.

Conclusion

The 2026 Heisman Trophy race is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, with a remarkable roster of talents eager to make their mark on college football. As we prepare for another thrilling season, I encourage fans to keep an eye on these emerging stars. They represent the future of college football, bringing with them stories of determination, courage, and unforgettable moments that will etch their names into history.