CBS Sports Announces 2026 Award Predictions
CBS Sports has released its early projections for the major individual awards that will be handed out at the conclusion of the 2026 college football season. The forecasts highlight a handful of standout performers across the nation.
Quarterback CJ Carr of Notre Dame is slated to capture the Heisman Trophy, the sport’s most prestigious individual honor, according to the network’s analysts.
On the defensive side of the ball, Texas edge rusher Colin Simmons is expected to dominate multiple award categories, headlining with the Bednarik Award.
Among the receiving corps, Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith is projected to win the Biletnikoff Trophy, while Florida’s Jadan Baugh is favored for the Doak Walker Award.
Running back Terrance Carter from Texas Tech is anticipated to receive the Mackey Award, and Oregon’s Iapani Laloulu is slated for the Rimington Award as the top specialist at his position.
In the secondary, Texas’ Jontez Williams is predicted to earn the Thorpe Award, and USC’s William Echoles is expected to capture the Outland Trophy.
Finally, Ole Miss defender Rolijah Hardy is forecasted to win the Butkus Award, recognizing the nation’s most outstanding linebacker.
What This Means for the Upcoming Season
If the forecasts hold, the 2026 campaign could feature a fresh wave of talent that reshapes traditional power dynamics. Coaches will likely tailor game plans to maximize the strengths of these award‑contending players, while fans can look forward to a season filled with highlight‑reel performances.
Analysts caution that injuries, schedule difficulty and the inherent unpredictability of college football mean the actual winners may differ, but the early buzz sets a compelling narrative for the months ahead.