Rising Stars on Offense
The recent preseason All‑American announcements have turned the spotlight on a handful of offensive standouts who are already generating buzz for the 2026 season. From powerful running backs to precision route runners, the named players represent a blend of experience and fresh talent across the nation.
Mississippi’s Kewan Lacy earned first‑team running back honors despite a potential reduction in snap count, having logged 335 touches for 1,744 scrimmage yards last year. At BYU, LJ Martin is also recognized at the same position after posting a career‑best 1,305 rushing yards and 893 yards after contact in 2025, a performance that could keep his team’s ground game humming.
The receiving corps features Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, who in just two seasons has compiled 81.5 catches, 1,279 yards and 13.5 touchdowns, and Miami’s Malachi Toney, celebrated for an explosive 122‑yard touchdown run in the 2025 national title game despite the team’s loss to Indiana. Texas’ Cam Coleman, a transfer from Auburn now working under Arch Manning, is slated to become a primary target in the Longhorns’ passing attack.
Tight end Trey’Dez Green from LSU joins the first team after a 433‑yard, seven‑touchdown season, positioning him as a top end‑zone option for new quarterback Sam Leavitt. Along the line, Texas’ Trevor Goosby is highlighted for elite pass‑ and run‑blocking grades above 80, even while recovering from a left knee injury, while LSU’s Jordan Seaton is praised for allowing just seven pressures throughout 2025.
Defensively, Michigan’s John Henry Daley made the first team at defensive end before an Achilles injury cut his 2025 campaign short, having recorded 17.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks earlier in the year. Notre Dame’s Leonard Moore earned first‑team cornerback status and is viewed as a potential Heisman contender after excelling against top targets like Makai Lemon.
Special teams also receive recognition, with Georgia Tech’s kicker Aidan Birr on the preseason watchlist after converting 86.2% of his field goals and ranking among the top five in makes and total points last season. At quarterback, Notre Dame’s CJ Carr, a second‑team selection, surprised many by surpassing expectations as a first‑year starter, throwing for over 2,700 yards, 24 touchdowns and only six interceptions.