Fall Camp Outlook
Boise State’s 2026 football squad enters fall camp with a mix of proven veterans and promising newcomers, but several starting spots remain up for grabs.
Among the certainty, quarterback Maddux Madsen, running backs Sire Gaines and Dylan Riley, edge rusher Jayden Virgin‑Morgan and linebacker Boen Phelps have locked down starting roles, giving the Broncos a solid foundation heading into the season.
Head coach Spencer Danielson has praised the energy in the wide receiver room, noting that players such as Cam Bates, Qumonte Williams Jr., Quinton Brown, Darren Morris and true freshman Rasean Jones are all making strides and pushing each other for snaps.
The competition at left tackle is shaping up between Colorado State‑Pueblo transfer Tyler Ethridge and Kyle Cox, with Ethridge showing particular promise during spring drills.
At left guard, junior returnees Carson Rasmussen and Jason Steele are battling for the starting role, while Oregon State transfer Zander Esty adds another layer of competition.
The center position appears to favor redshirt freshman Stewart Taufa, though Zander Esty is also in the mix as a viable alternative.
Defensive tackle duties will be shared among a group of eleven candidates, highlighted by returning senior David Latu and Central Washington transfer Mikaio Edward, while Michael Madrie and Lopez Sanusi are also vying for rotation spots.
Linebacker spots are contested by Kansas transfer Logan Brantley, returnees Syncere Brackett‑Lambey and Jake Ripp, alongside established starter Boen Phelps, creating a deep and versatile unit.
In the secondary, cornerback battles involve Jaden Mickey and Sherrod Smith, with Kennesaw State transfer JeRico Washington Jr. and returnees Demetrius Freeney Jr. and Franklyn Johnson Jr. all in the mix, while nickelback competition features South Dakota transfer Roman Tillmon, TCU transfer Cam Jamerson and true freshman Madden Soliai. The safety group appears more settled, led by Travis Anderson and Derek Ganter Jr.