Full Breakdown
2026 Heisman Trophy Race: Early Contenders and Insights
12/14/2025, 4:03:10 AM
Heisman Trophy Winner 2025: Fernando Mendoza
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza won the 2025 Heisman Trophy, marking a historic achievement as the first Hoosier to receive the award. Mendoza led Indiana to a perfect 13-0 season and their first Big Ten title since 1967, completing 71.5% of his passes for 2,980 yards and 39 total touchdowns. He outperformed notable finalists, including Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia and Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love, securing 2,362 points and 643 first-place votes in the Heisman voting.
Key Contenders for 2026
As the 2026 Heisman Trophy race approaches, several players are emerging as potential frontrunners. The landscape will be influenced by NFL Draft decisions and transfer portal movements, but early predictions highlight a mix of established stars and rising talents.
Returning Stars
1. Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State: After finishing fourth in the 2025 Heisman voting, Sayin completed 78.4% of his passes for 3,323 yards and 31 touchdowns. His performance in the Big Ten Championship, despite a loss to Indiana, showcased his potential as a leading candidate for 2026.
2. Arch Manning, QB, Texas: Manning's late-season surge included 15 touchdowns and only two interceptions in the final five games. His continued development in college could position him as a top contender if he opts to return.
3. Marcel Reed, QB, Texas A&M: Reed led Texas A&M to an 11-1 record, throwing for nearly 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns. His performance will be critical as he adjusts to a new offensive coordinator.
4. Gunner Stockton, QB, Georgia: Stockton's dual-threat capabilities helped Georgia secure a 12-1 record and an SEC title. His clutch performances make him a strong candidate for the upcoming season.
Rising Talents
1. Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State: Smith's impressive 2025 season included 80 receptions for 1,086 yards and 12 touchdowns. As a junior, he aims to break school records and enhance his Heisman candidacy.
2. Jayden Maiava, QB, USC: Under coach Lincoln Riley, Maiava threw for 3,431 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2025. His potential for a breakout season in 2026 could place him in the Heisman conversation.
3. Drew Mestemaker, QB, North Texas: Leading the FBS with 4,129 passing yards, Mestemaker's journey from walk-on to star quarterback makes him a compelling candidate, regardless of his future team.
4. Ahmad Hardy, RB, Missouri: Hardy's standout season included 1,560 rushing yards, ranking him second in the FBS. His performance as a transfer from Louisiana-Monroe has established him as a key player to watch.
Official Statements & Responses
Analysts emphasize the importance of player decisions in shaping the Heisman landscape. The potential for players like Sayin and Manning to return to college football is seen as pivotal for their candidacies. "The competition will be fierce, but the talent pool is deep," noted a college football analyst.
Criticism & Opposition
Some critics argue that the Heisman race often favors quarterbacks over other positions, potentially overshadowing standout performances from running backs and receivers. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities of the award's selection process.
What's Next
As the 2026 Heisman Trophy race unfolds, the focus will shift to player performances in the upcoming season and the impact of roster changes due to the NFL Draft and transfer portal. The evolving dynamics will play a crucial role in determining the next Heisman winner.
