Top Heisman Trophy Candidates for 2026: Players Who Could Win College Football’s Biggest Award
: Top Heisman Trophy Candidates 2026: Favorites, Dark Horses & Players to Watch
The race for the 2026 Heisman Trophy is already generating major excitement among college football fans. Every season, the award recognizes the most outstanding player in college football, and this year’s competition features elite quarterbacks, explosive receivers, dominant defenders, and game-changing playmakers.
While quarterbacks have historically dominated the award, recent seasons have shown that exceptional performances from other positions can also enter the conversation. The 2026 race includes several returning stars and emerging talents who could become the face of college football. (NCAA)
What Makes a Heisman Trophy Winner?
Winning the Heisman requires more than impressive statistics.
Voters usually consider:
- Individual performance
- Team success
- Big-game impact
- Leadership
- National recognition
- Ability to create memorable moments
A player competing for the Heisman usually needs to perform at an elite level while helping their team compete for championships.
- Arch Manning – Quarterback, Texas
Arch Manning enters the 2026 season as one of the most talked-about players in college football.
The Texas quarterback carries enormous expectations because of his famous football background, but his performance on the field has created genuine Heisman momentum.
Why Manning Is a Favorite
- Elite arm talent
- Strong decision-making ability
- Mobility outside the pocket
- Plays for a national championship contender
A successful season with Texas could put Manning at the center of the Heisman conversation. (SI)
- Julian Sayin – Quarterback, Ohio State
Ohio State quarterbacks are always part of the national spotlight, and Julian Sayin enters 2026 with one of the strongest Heisman cases.
His biggest advantage is playing in an explosive offensive system surrounded by elite talent.
If Ohio State competes for a national championship, Sayin could become one of the leading Heisman candidates. (NCAA)
- Dante Moore – Quarterback, Oregon
Dante Moore is another quarterback expected to make a major impact in 2026.
Oregon’s high-powered offense gives him an ideal platform to produce impressive numbers.
Why He Could Win
- Strong passing ability
- Explosive offensive system
- Big-game opportunities
- National championship expectations
A strong season against elite competition could significantly boost his Heisman chances. (NCAA)
- Jeremiah Smith – Wide Receiver, Ohio State
Quarterbacks usually dominate Heisman voting, but Jeremiah Smith has the talent to challenge that trend.
The Ohio State receiver has been considered one of the most talented young players in college football.
Why Smith Is Special
- Elite athletic ability
- Big-play potential
- Excellent route running
- Game-changing receiving skills
A historic statistical season could make him one of the rare wide receivers to seriously challenge quarterbacks for the award. (PFF)
- Gunner Stockton – Quarterback, Georgia
Georgia continues to produce championship-level quarterbacks, and Gunner Stockton enters 2026 with a strong opportunity.
Playing for a national contender gives him the platform needed for Heisman consideration.
- SEC competition exposure
- Leadership ability
Success in major SEC games could make him a serious finalist. (NCAA)
- Malachi Toney – Wide Receiver, Miami
Malachi Toney represents the new generation of explosive college football playmakers.
Receivers rarely win the Heisman, but elite production can force voters to take notice.
Potential Strengths
- Big-play ability
- Speed and agility
- Increased offensive role
- Ability to change games
A dominant season could place him among the nation’s top offensive players. (NCAA)
- Colin Simmons – Defensive End, Texas
The Heisman has traditionally favored offensive players, but elite defensive performances can still create excitement.
Colin Simmons enters 2026 as one of the most talented defensive players in college football.
Why He Could Make History
- Elite pass-rushing ability
- Game-changing defensive plays
- Ability to impact every opponent
A dominant defensive season would make him one of the rare defenders in Heisman discussions. (NCAA)
- Kewan Lacy – Running Back, Ole Miss
Running backs face a difficult path to winning the Heisman, but exceptional production can change the conversation.
Kewan Lacy enters the season as one of the backs capable of producing eye-catching numbers.
What Helps His Case
- High rushing production
- Touchdown ability
- Offensive importance
- Big-game performances
A massive statistical season could push him into the finalist conversation. (NCAA)
Dark Horse Candidates to Watch
Every Heisman race produces surprise contenders.
Players who could rise during the season include:
CJ Carr – Notre Dame QB
A strong season with Notre Dame could quickly increase national attention. (NCAA)
Sam Leavitt – LSU QB
A productive season in a major conference could make him a serious challenger. (NCAA)
Marcel Reed – Texas A&M QB
Quarterbacks from elite programs often enter the conversation with breakout seasons. (NCAA)
Biggest Factors That Will Decide the 2026 Heisman Race
Team Success
A player on a playoff contender usually receives more attention.
Statistics
Passing yards, touchdowns, rushing production, and explosive plays remain important.
Signature Moments
A Heisman campaign often requires memorable performances against top opponents.
Consistency
One great month is not enough. Candidates must perform throughout the season.
Early Heisman Trophy Rankings
Based on talent, opportunity, and team expectations:
- Arch Manning – Texas
- Julian Sayin – Ohio State
- Dante Moore – Oregon
- Jeremiah Smith – Ohio State
- Gunner Stockton – Georgia
- Malachi Toney – Miami
- Colin Simmons – Texas
- Kewan Lacy – Ole Miss
(NCAA)
Final Prediction
The 2026 Heisman Trophy race appears to be one of the most competitive in recent years.
Quarterbacks such as Arch Manning, Julian Sayin, Dante Moore, and Gunner Stockton have the biggest advantage because they lead championship contenders. However, players like Jeremiah Smith and Colin Simmons have the talent to challenge the traditional quarterback dominance.
Newsletter