Phil Steele's 2026 Heisman Trophy favorites are an intriguing bunch, with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. The list is a testament to the depth and talent across college football, with a notable emphasis on quarterbacks. Here's a deeper dive into the top 10, with a focus on the personal narratives and broader implications of each player's potential Heisman journey.
Arch Manning: The Texas Titan
Arch Manning, the son of NFL legend Peyton Manning, entered the 2025 season with high expectations. While he faced a slow start, he finished the season on a high note, leading Texas to a 7-1 record in his final eight games. With 2,012 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, along with 239 rushing yards and five scores, Manning's dual-threat abilities were on full display. The Longhorns' quest for a return to the College Football Playoff could see Manning as the central figure, making him a strong contender for the Heisman.
Dante Moore: The Oregon Duck's Rise
Dante Moore, after skipping the NFL Draft, is poised to become the first Oregon quarterback to win the Heisman since 2014. In his first season as the starter, Moore passed for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns, leading the Ducks to a 13-2 record and the College Football Playoff semifinals. With superstar tight end Jamari Johnson and talented wide receivers returning, Moore's prospects for a Heisman run are bright. The Ducks' pursuit of their first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship could see Moore in the spotlight.
CJ Carr: The Rising Star at Notre Dame
CJ Carr's freshman campaign at Notre Dame was nothing short of impressive. With 2,741 passing yards and 24 touchdowns, he led the Irish to 12 games. In his two losses, Carr still managed 514 passing yards and four total touchdowns. ESPN's Todd McShay hailed Carr as the best quarterback Notre Dame has had in his lifetime, predicting a legendary career. Carr's second year under Marcus Freeman's leadership could see him take an even bigger leap, making him a serious Heisman contender.
Trinidad Chambliss: The Ole Miss Rebelde
Trinidad Chambliss' extra year of eligibility solidified Ole Miss as a major winner in the college football offseason. Despite not starting the 2025 campaign, Chambliss took over for an injured Austin Simmons and led the Rebels to the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history. With 22 touchdowns and just three interceptions, Chambliss was hailed by ESPN's Jordan Rodgers as the best quarterback in the College Football Playoff. His talent and potential make him a strong Heisman contender.
Julian Sayin: The Ohio State Buckeye
Julian Sayin's first season as Ohio State's starter was a triumph. With 3,610 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, he led the Buckeyes to an unblemished 12-0 regular season record and the College Football Playoff. Sayin's accuracy and ability to lead the Buckeyes to a national championship make him a strong Heisman favorite. However, some critics argue that his success was more due to his receivers' brilliance than his own throwing.
Jeremiah Smith: The Ohio State Wide Receiver
Jeremiah Smith, a wide receiver at Ohio State, is not a traditional Heisman candidate. However, his skills and impact on the field are undeniable. With 163 receptions for 2,558 yards and 27 touchdowns, Smith was named a Unanimous All-American in 2025 and First Team All-American in 2024. His ability to stretch opponents vertically and his game-changing burst make him a tantalizing prospect for the Heisman.
Darian Mensah: The Miami Hurricane
Darian Mensah, who transferred from Duke after leading them to an ACC Championship, is a strong Heisman contender. With 3,973 passing yards and 34 touchdowns, Mensah was remarkable for head coach Manny Diaz and Duke. His accuracy, pocket awareness, and athletic abilities make him a formidable quarterback. Mensah's potential to lead Miami to success could see him in the Heisman spotlight.
Josh Hoover: The Indiana Hoosier
Josh Hoover faces the challenging task of succeeding a Heisman-winning quarterback at Indiana. With 9,629 passing yards and 71 touchdowns, Hoover has proven his worth. He joins Ohio transfer Kurtis Rourke and Cal transfer Fernando Mendoza as Indiana's starting quarterbacks. Hoover's hard work and connection with star receiver Charlie Becker could see him make a strong case for the Heisman.
Sam Leavitt: The LSU Tiger
Sam Leavitt, the first starting quarterback of the Lane Kiffin era at LSU, is a transfer from Arizona State. Across two seasons as ASU's starter, Leavitt totaled 4,513 passing yards and 34 touchdowns. ESPN's Greg McElroy praised Leavitt's mobility and creativity, highlighting his ability to extend plays and stress the opposing defense. Leavitt's potential to lead LSU to success makes him a strong Heisman contender.
Devon Dampier: The Utah Ute
Devon Dampier, Utah's starting quarterback, shone in his first season with 2,490 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. A threat to contribute on the ground as well, Dampier led Utah to an 11-2 record and a blowout victory over Nebraska in the Las Vegas Bowl. However, the departure of his head coach and offensive coordinator could impact his Heisman prospects.
In conclusion, Phil Steele's 2026 Heisman Trophy favorites are a diverse group, with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Each player brings unique skills and potential to the table, making the Heisman race an intriguing and unpredictable affair. From the Texas Titan to the Utah Ute, the journey to New York City for the Heisman Trophy ceremony promises to be a captivating one.
