2026 Heisman Favorites: Early Top Picks and a Bold Prediction
The 2026 Heisman Trophy race is already vibrant with energy and storylines that could define a memorable college football season. With last year’s winner, Fernando Mendoza, now off to the NFL and leaving the college game behind, the spotlight has shifted to a fresh crop of stars ready to stake their claim as the nation’s most outstanding player. Oddsmakers and pundits alike have begun to tease early favorites, and while the narrative is still young, three names have risen to the top of the early board. These players aren’t just favorites because of hype; their talent, production, and futures have fans dreaming about who will hoist the Heisman come December.
Topping many early lists is Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr, a dynamic playmaker who enters 2026 atop sportsbooks at around +700 to win the award. Carr’s ability to extend plays with his legs and thread the needle with his arm has Notre Dame back in national conversations, and voters love a signal-caller who can put up big numbers against quality competition. Close behind is Arch Manning of Texas +850, who showed flashes of brilliance last season and is poised for a breakout campaign with an improved supporting cast and offense. Oregon’s Dante Moore +1200 rounds out the top three, a dual threat with more than 3,500 yards and 32 total touchdowns this past season whose decision to return has already elevated his profile among voters.
While quarterbacks dominate the headlines, keep your eyes on the non-quarterback playmakers waiting in the wings, who are ready to steal the spotlight. Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith continues to garner attention as one of the nation’s most explosive offensive players, capable of swinging games with jaw-dropping catches and big-play ability. Projections have Smith high on many way-too-early lists, and while a receiver hasn’t won the Heisman in decades, his production could force voters to reconsider old narratives. Other names like Julian Sayin and Josh Hoover are also in the broader mix, making this year’s race feel agreeably deep and unpredictable.
Narrative will be as big a factor as production this fall, and certain matchups could make or break a candidacy. Carr’s Notre Dame hosts some marquee games that could have voters’ eyes glued to the television, while Manning’s schedule and Texas’ quest for consistency will put him front and center early. Moore’s late-season schedule and potential marquee performances could push him over the edge if he shines when it matters most. Heisman history shows that voters often reward players who win big games and lead their teams to national prominence, which is why every one of these contenders must not only put up stats but also carry their team to signature moments.
So, who do I predict will break out and secure early front-runner status? Given the combination of talent, offensive opportunity, and early odds support, CJ feels like the early 2026 Heisman pick. He’s got the arm talent, leadership chops, and hallmark moments lined up on Notre Dame’s schedule that could sway voters over the course of the season. With the presence of potential sleepers like Smith and breakout strategies from teams across the country, this Heisman race feels poised to deliver drama, excitement, and exceptional performances all year long.
