2026 Heisman Trophy Race Poised for Historic Milestone

The 2026 Heisman Trophy race is shaping up to be a historic event with an impressive pool of candidates. As the college football season approaches, ambitions rise among players vying for this prestigious award. The upcoming months will be pivotal as performance metrics and game outcomes influence voters’ decisions.

Current State of the Heisman Race

Reigning Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, the quarterback from Indiana, was a surprising selection. Initially considered a long shot with 60-1 odds, he capitalized during the season to emerge as the frontrunner. The pathway to the Heisman is often marked by standout stats and the success of major programs, a trend expected to continue in 2026.

Prominent Candidates for 2026

This next Heisman race features several notable candidates from competitive programs. Here’s a look at the top contenders:

• CJ Carr, Notre Dame: In his first full season as a starter, he excelled recently in passing efficiency.
• Arch Manning, Texas: Despite early struggles, he finished strong and has gained new talent at skill positions.
• Dante Moore, Oregon: A well-known name in the Big Ten with significant potential.
• Gunner Stockton, Georgia: Positioned to leverage Georgia’s strong football tradition.
• Jayden Maiava, USC: Expected to shine under a storied program with a high-profile history.
• John Mateer, Oklahoma: Another contender in the challenging landscape of college football.
• Julian Sayin, Ohio State: A finalist last season, renowned for leading in completion percentage.

Emerging Stars and Season Context

Further strengthening the competition are veterans moving to new programs. This includes:

• Josh Hoover: Taking over Mendoza’s role at Indiana.
• Darian Mensah: Backing Miami’s offense.
• Sam Leavitt: Expected to thrive at LSU.
• Brendan Sorsby: The new standout at Texas Tech.

Additionally, rising stars like Ole Miss’s Trinidad Chambliss and Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith could enter the race. Smith is entering his third year and is regarded as one of the top players in college football.

The Road Ahead

The 2026 Heisman race promises excitement with its variety of candidates. As teams gear up for the season, injuries and performance will inevitably influence the race. Every contender has the potential to stake their claim, making this season one to watch.

As the countdown begins, it’s clear: the 2026 Heisman Trophy race could redefine expectations and set new benchmarks for excellence in college football.