Top Sophomores to Watch in College Football for 2026

The 2026 college football season is set to feature several standout sophomores who made significant impacts during their freshman year. Among them is Malachi Toney from Miami (FL), who led the FBS with 109 receptions and is expected to be a key player again this season.

Other notable players include Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele from California, who showed promise with a strong finish to his freshman season, and Hawkins from North Texas, who excelled as a running back with 25 touchdowns. Additionally, Lee, a cornerback from Alabama, demonstrated exceptional coverage skills, while Jackson, a running back, is poised to build on his successful debut season.

As these players enter their second year, they are generating buzz for their potential to be top NFL draft picks in the future, with many analysts keeping a close eye on their development throughout the upcoming season.