2026 College Football All-American Team Predictions: Early Edition
The college football season is just around the corner, and it's never too early to start speculating on the players who will make an impact. In this early edition of the All-American team predictions, we take a look at some of the standout players who could make a name for themselves in 2026.
Offense
Quarterback - Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss
Trinidad Chambliss is a rising star in college football, and he's set to have a breakout season in 2026. After transferring to Ole Miss and suing the NCAA to become eligible, Chambliss is now one of the Heisman favorites. With 3,937 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and three interceptions last season, he led the Rebels to the semifinals. This season, he's expected to take the Rebels to new heights, and his magician-like abilities on the gridiron make him a must-watch.
Running Back - Kewan Lacy, Ole Miss
Kewan Lacy is another transfer who made an immediate impact at Ole Miss. With 1,567 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns as a sophomore, Lacy is one of college football's most talented returning players. He forms an electric backfield with Chambliss, and his NFL draft stock is rising. Lacy's last season at Missouri was a breakout, and he's set to continue his success in 2026.
Wide Receiver - Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State
Jeremiah Smith is a household name in college football, and he's set to have another stellar season in 2026. With 2,558 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns in his first two collegiate seasons, Smith is on track to break the all-time Ohio State receiving record. He was a unanimous First Team All-American last season, and it's unlikely that he won't repeat the honors in his final collegiate season.
Tight End - Trey'Dez Green, LSU
Trey'Dez Green is a mismatch nightmare, standing at 6-foot-7 and 240 pounds. He emerged as a strong red-zone target last season, scoring seven receiving touchdowns. If he can double his touchdown production, he could earn All-American honors. Lane Kiffin has been praising Green, and LSU's receiving room is stacked with weapons.
Defense
Defensive End - Dylan Stewart, South Carolina
Dylan Stewart is a rising star on the defensive line, and he's set to have a breakout season in 2026. With 6.5 sacks as a freshman and 4.5 as a sophomore, Stewart has forced six fumbles in his two-year career. An increase in production as a junior should have him wavering near any All-American team.
Linebacker - Whit Weeks, LSU
Whit Weeks is one of college football's best linebackers, and he's set to return to dominance under new head coach Lane Kiffin. With 120 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and an interception as a sophomore, Weeks is a force to be reckoned with. As long as he remains healthy, he should return to his dominant form.
Cornerback - Leonard Moore, Notre Dame
Leonard Moore is a lockdown cornerback who recorded five interceptions, a forced fumble, and seven passes defensed last season. He's on track to be the top cornerback in the 2027 NFL Draft class, and he's a write-in on any preseason All-American team. Moore's performance last season cemented his status as a premier corner in college football.
Specialists
Kicker - Lucas Carneiro, Ole Miss
Lucas Carneiro is college football's premier kicker, and he's set to have another stellar season in 2026. He connected on 88.6% of his field goals in 2025 and returns to the Rebels for his senior season. With NFL-caliber talent and a clutch gene, Carneiro is a force to be reckoned with.
Punter - Palmer Williams, Baylor
Palmer Williams is one of the most proven punters in college football, and he's set to have another outstanding season in 2026. He led the nation in average yards per punt last season and possesses the ability to flip the field. With a lot of talented punters moving on, Williams is a top contender for the Ray Guy Award.
In my opinion, the 2026 college football season is shaping up to be an exciting one, and these players are set to make an impact. From the quarterback to the specialists, these players are sure to entertain and inspire fans across the country.
