The 2026 Freaks List: Measuring the Unusual
Bruce Feldman’s annual Freaks List has become a benchmark for identifying college football athletes whose physical measurements set them apart, drawing on expert feedback to rank the most extraordinary talents.
This year’s edition featured four members of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, underscoring the program’s growing emphasis on size, speed and strength under head coach Marcus Freeman.
Notre Dame’s Defensive Surge
Defensive tackle Elijah Hughes impressed with a broad jump near ten feet and a squat that topped 600 pounds, highlighting his dominance in the trenches.
Transfer lineman Francis Brewu, who arrived from Pittsburgh, earned a No. 24 spot after posting a 455‑pound squat and a 33‑inch vertical, signaling a promising first season in South Bend.
Bryce Young, the former Alabama quarterback turned Irish signal‑caller, climbed back into the rankings after a vertical leap of 35 inches and a bench press of 335 pounds, numbers that speak to his unexpected athleticism.
Standout Performances Across the Board
Anthonie Knapp, who shifted from left tackle to left guard, posted a 585‑pound squat and a 33‑inch vertical, showcasing the versatility the Irish line will bring.
The list also recognized Miami’s Jackson Cantwell as the highest‑ranked opponent player, placing him at No. 4, while seven Notre Dame adversaries contributed to the overall count of 101 athletes honored.
Coach Freeman sees these physical benchmarks as more than numbers; they reflect a deliberate strategy to build a line that can compete with the nation’s most demanding offenses.