The Athletic has unveiled its preseason All-Big Ten squads for the 2026 college football season, and the Indiana Hoosiers are front and center. The publication’s selections reflect not only individual talent but also the program’s recent dominance, having captured the national championship last year.
Indiana’s success earned it a league-best ten honorees spread across the first, second and third teams, a tally exceeded only by Ohio State and Oregon. The depth of representation signals that the Hoosiers are poised to defend their title with a roster loaded with experience and upside.
First-Team Standouts
The first-team lineup reads like a who’s-who of the Hoosiers’ most impactful contributors. Charlie Becker earned his spot by delivering clutch fourth-quarter catches that helped seal the championship, while Carter Smith, a unanimous first-team All-American, opted to return for his senior year, bringing veteran leadership to the offensive line.
Tyrique Tucker, a returning first-team All-Big Ten and third-team All-American defensive tackle, continues to anchor the interior of the defensive front. Rolijah Hardy, despite an undersized frame, led the team in tackles and sacks, showcasing relentless effort.
Isaiah Jones added a defensive spark with 78 tackles and seven sacks in the marquee matchups, and Nico Radicic’s perfect kicking record — 87 extra-point attempts and 18 of 19 field goals — provided a reliable finish to close games.
Depth Across the Board
Additional honorees such as Nick Marsh, Mario Landino, Amare Ferrell, Jamari Sharpe and Scott Dochterman round out a deep roster that suggests the Hoosiers will again be a formidable force. Their inclusion underscores the program’s ability to contribute talent at every position, a factor that could prove decisive as the season unfolds.