Phil Steele has unveiled his preseason College Football 2026 All‑American teams, a snapshot of the players he expects to dominate the upcoming season. The selections span the first through fourth teams and reflect a blend of proven performers and emerging stars.
First‑Team Standouts
Among the first‑team honorees, Oregon quarterback Dante Moore earns recognition after a debut season in which he threw for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns. Ohio State’s wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is touted as the premier player heading into 2026, while Texas linebacker Colin Simmons is viewed as a top defensive prospect for the 2027 NFL Draft. Notre Dame safety Leonard Moore, a unanimous All‑American a year ago, returns as a defensive anchor. Texas Tech tight end Terrance Carter, a reigning Second Team All‑Big 12 selection, and Indiana offensive tackle Carter Smith, who anchored a championship‑winning offensive line, also receive first‑team nods.
The second and third teams feature additional playmakers such as Kewan Lacy of Ole Miss, projected to be a cornerstone on a College Football Playoff contender, and Ahmad Hardy of Missouri, who rushed for 1,649 yards last season, the most among Power Four players.
Freshmen sensations also appear on the list. Miami wide receiver Malachi Toney helped the Hurricanes reach the National Championship Game in his rookie year, while Oklahoma defensive tackle David Stone contributed to a playoff return for the Sooners.
Depth and Surprise Picks
Beyond the headline names, the lists include a host of other athletes who could shape the narrative. Indiana linebacker Isaiah Jones was a key piece of a championship‑winning defense, and Oregon safety Koi Perich, one of the most coveted transfer portal acquisitions, is expected to make an immediate impact.
Kickers and specialists also receive attention. Ole Miss kicker Lucas Carneiro converted 31 of 35 field goals and was perfect on 56 extra points, while Troy punter Evan Crenshaw averaged 45.7 yards per punt. Texas punt returner Ryan Niblett added two punt‑return touchdowns last season.