Auburn’s rising star quarterback Byrum Brown has been selected for the prestigious Manning Award preseason watchlist for the 2026 college football season, a recognition that places him among the nation’s most anticipated signal‑callers.
A Prestigious Preseason Honor
Brown’s journey to this spotlight began at South Florida, where he posted 3,158 passing yards and 28 touchdowns last season, showcasing a blend of arm strength and poise that caught the eye of national evaluators.
His inclusion marks the first time since 2021 that an Auburn quarterback has earned a spot on the Manning Award preseason list, underscoring the program’s resurgence under its current coaching staff.
The Tigers will open the season in a high‑profile setting, facing Baylor in the Aflac Kickoff game on September 5 at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, a matchup that will pit Brown against a talented SEC rival.
Brown is one of eight SEC quarterbacks named to the 2026 watchlist, alongside Trinidad Chambliss, Sam Leavitt, Arch Manning, John Mateer, Marcel Reed, LaNorris Sellers and Gunner Stockton, a group that will see its first midseason update on November 5, with the award itself announced on January 27 following the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Brown’s experience and skill set will translate on the national stage, especially as he prepares to lead Auburn’s offense in what promises to be a compelling campaign.