The Big 12 Conference has unveiled its preseason honors and the 2026 Preseason All‑Big 12 team, setting the stage for what many expect to be a tightly contested season across the league.
BYU’s star running back LJ Martin was voted Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, a testament to his explosive playmaking that helped the Cougars clinch a conference title last year.
Preseason Accolades Signal Competitive Balance
Texas Tech’s defensive standout A.J. Holmes Jr. earned Preseason Defensive Player of the Year after a breakout campaign that placed him among the nation’s top pass‑rushers.
The conference also recognized newcomers, with Oklahoma State’s defensive end Drew Mestemaker named Preseason Newcomer of the Year, highlighting the influx of talent across the league.
Texas Tech led all programs with seven selections, including five on the defensive side, while BYU followed with six and Houston added three, underscoring the depth of talent across the Big 12.
The full Preseason All‑Big 12 squad spans every position, featuring athletes from schools such as Arizona, West Virginia, Arizona State, Cincinnati, Kansas State, Utah, TCU and Baylor, promising a diverse array of play styles and strategies.
Coaches and analysts alike view these awards as early indicators of which teams might contend for the championship, but the true test will unfold on the field as the season progresses.