Rising Stars Shine on The Athletic’s 2026 Freaks List
The newest edition of The Athletic’s annual Freaks List, released ahead of the 2026 college football season, features two athletes whose physical gifts and on‑field production have already captured widespread attention. Both are expected to be key contributors for their respective teams.
Jayden Duke Scott, a 5‑foot‑10, 223‑pound sophomore running back for Duke, earned the No. 18 spot after posting a 196‑yard game against Georgia Tech and a 94‑yard effort in a bowl win over Memphis. He has added 10 pounds during the offseason while maintaining a 4.35‑second 40‑yard dash and a 38.5‑inch vertical jump, and he recently lifted 405 pounds in the clean and 575 pounds in the back squat.
Bruce Feldman, senior writer for The Athletic, highlighted Scott’s blend of size, speed and strength, noting that he is also a candidate for the Paul Hornung Watch List. Meanwhile, defensive lineman Colby “Crash” Cronk from North Carolina transitioned from a track and field background to dominate on the line, adding 25 pounds to reach 285 pounds at 6‑foot‑3. This summer he set a program record with a 410‑pound power clean and a 420‑pound bench press, complemented by a 35.6‑inch vertical and a 4.80‑second 40.
Feldman emphasized that both players embody the kind of athleticism that can shift momentum in critical games, making them central figures to watch as the 2026 season unfolds.