ESPN's annual 'watch list' season is upon us, and the 'Worldwide Leader' has unveiled its top award candidates for each of the top 25 college football teams in 2026. This year's list is packed with talented players who are poised to make a splash in the world of college football awards. From the Heisman Trophy to the Butkus Award, these players are sure to be in the running for some of the most prestigious individual honors in the sport.
One player who stands out is WR Jeremiah Smith of Ohio State. With 163 catches for 2,558 yards and 12 touchdowns in just two seasons, Smith is a clear favorite for the Biletnikoff Award. His versatility, including two rushing scores and nine carries out of the backfield, makes him a well-rounded threat that could be a game-changer for the Buckeyes.
Another standout is QB Dante Moore of Oregon. Despite returning to school for another year, Moore's decision to stay in college is paying off. With a strong supporting cast, including talented receivers, Moore is expected to post impressive numbers again in 2026. The question remains whether he can surpass his 3,565 passing yards and 30 touchdowns from last season.
QB Gunner Stockton of Georgia is also in the running for the Heisman Trophy. Stockton's performance in 2025, including a scintillating performance against Ole Miss and a dismantling of Alabama in the SEC Championship Game, has earned him a spot in the spotlight. His ability to lead a team in crucial games makes him a strong contender for the award.
CB Leonard Moore of Notre Dame is a versatile defender who is a favorite for the Jim Thorpe Award. With 31 tackles, a forced fumble, five interceptions, and seven pass breakups in 2025, Moore is a force to be reckoned with on the defensive side of the ball. His ability to make plays in both coverage and run defense makes him a valuable asset for the Fighting Irish.
QB Arch Manning of Texas is another player who has been generating buzz throughout his career. With 3,163 passing yards and 26 touchdowns in his previous season, Manning is a dual-threat quarterback who can both throw and run. His decision to stay in college for another year is a testament to his dedication to improving his game.
OT Carter Smith of Indiana is a top contender for the Outland Trophy. With 38 consecutive starts and a 6-foot-5, 313-pound frame, Smith is a dominant force in the trenches. His ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes will be crucial for Indiana's success in 2026.
WR Malachi Toney of Miami is another wide receiver who is expected to excel in 2026. With 109 catches for 1,211 yards and 10 touchdowns in his freshman season, Toney is a dynamic playmaker who can do it all. His ability to break in a new starting quarterback will be a key factor in Miami's success.
LB Ben Roberts of Texas Tech is a defensive anchor who is a strong candidate for the Butkus Award. With 275 tackles, 15.0 tackles for a loss, and seven forced fumbles in the last three seasons, Roberts is a disruptive force on defense. His ability to lead the defense and make plays will be crucial for the Red Raiders.
QB Trinidad Chambliss of Ole Miss is a dynamic signal caller who is in the running for the Heisman Trophy. With 3,937 passing yards and 22 touchdowns in his previous season, Chambliss is a threat to throw and run. His decision to stay at Ole Miss for another year is a significant boost for the Rebels.
S Dalton Brooks of Texas A&M is a veteran safety who is a strong candidate for the Jim Thorpe Award. With 138 tackles, 12.0 tackles for a loss, and three interceptions in the last three seasons, Brooks is a leader on defense. His ability to lead the secondary will be crucial for the Aggies' success.
Other notable award candidates include LB Whit Weeks of LSU, RB LJ Martin of BYU, PK Tate Sandell of Oklahoma, DE John Henry Daley of Michigan, QB Rocco Becht of Penn State, LB Yhonzae Pierre of Alabama, QB Demond Williams Jr. of Washington, QB Devon Dampier of Utah, S Zach Lutmer of Iowa, K Ryon Sayeri of USC, DE Clev Lubin of Louisville, QB Kevin Jennings of SMU, and S Jamel Johnson of TCU. These players are sure to make a splash in the world of college football awards in 2026.
