Missouri’s defensive standout Ahmad Hardy and rising edge rusher Cayden Green have both earned spots on the 2026 USA Today Sports Network All‑SEC team, a recognition that underscores the Tigers’ defensive resurgence.
All‑SEC Honors Highlight Missouri’s Defensive Surge
The accolades arrive at a time when the program is still viewed skeptically by league voters, who have slotted the Tigers near the bottom of the SEC standings for the upcoming season.
Hardy, who was struck by a gunshot wound to his thigh on May 10 in Mississippi, is expected to re‑enter practice within five to eight weeks, according to medical sources familiar with his recovery.
Coach Eliah Drinkwitz, who took over play‑calling duties after the injury, has indicated that the team will manage Hardy’s workload carefully as he works toward a full return.
Preseason Forecasts Favor Texas
Despite the individual honors, the broader preseason narrative places Texas at the top of the SEC hierarchy, with head coach Steve Sarkisian emerging as the frontrunner for SEC Coach of the Year.
Trinidad Chambliss, a standout from the previous season, has been tabbed as the conference’s Player of the Year, while Sam Leavitt received the nod for Newcomer of the Year.
Awards and the Panel Behind Them
Both the All‑SEC team and the individual awards were selected by a panel of fifteen writers who cover the league, lending a media‑driven perspective to the predictions.
The upcoming season will test whether Missouri can translate these early recognitions into on‑field success, especially as they navigate a crowded SEC schedule.