Rising Stars Set to Shape 2026 College Football
The Coloradoan's Athlete of the Week series, presented in collaboration with Blue Federal Credit Union, continues to shine a spotlight on the region's most promising athletic talent.
This year's edition zeroes in on former high school players from the Fort Collins area who are poised to make notable contributions to college football during the 2026 season.
Ten standout athletes have been named as nominees, each bringing a distinct set of skills and experiences that could influence the upcoming campaigns of their respective programs.
Among them, Tanner Gray, a true freshman at Nevada, arrives with a college‑ready frame measuring 6‑foot‑2 and 240 pounds, suggesting immediate physical readiness for the Wolf Pack.
Dontay Johnson, a fifth‑year senior at South Dakota State, is expected to anchor the Jackrabbits' defense, bringing veteran savvy to the secondary.
Trek Keyworth, a receiver at Colorado Mesa, earned honorable‑mention all‑conference recognition last season, highlighting his potential as a playmaker.
Quarterback Tyler Kubat at William Jewell threw for more than 2,150 yards and 19 touchdowns last year, positioning him as a key offensive weapon for the Cardinals.
Marcus Mozer, now transferring closer to home after a season at San Diego State, joins Northern Colorado with the aim of adding depth at the receiver position.
Defensive back Mikey Munn at Rutgers garnered second‑team FCS All‑American honors in 2023, underscoring his impact on the Scarlet Knights' defense.
Blake Smotherman, a tight end at Colorado School of Mines, was a second‑team All‑RMAC selection last year, indicating his growing influence in the Orediggers' offense.
Running back Chase Thomas at Briar Cliff played a pivotal role in the team's first winning record in seven years, a milestone that could signal a turnaround for the Chargers.
Jones Thomas, a defensive back at Wyoming, returns as the Cowboys' top tackler, bringing experience to a defense that aims to rebuild its front.
Ethan Thomason, an offensive lineman at BYU, arrives as a former four‑star recruit from the Rocky Mountain region, adding depth to the Cougars' line.
Voting for the top impact player remains open until August 4, with the winner to be revealed on coloradoan.com/sports, where fans can follow the announcement and celebrate the chosen athlete.
The series not only highlights individual excellence but also reflects the broader growth of football talent emerging from the Front Range and surrounding communities.