Phil Steele's 2026 Heisman Trophy favorites are a diverse group of quarterbacks and wide receivers, with a strong emphasis on talent and potential. Here's a breakdown of the top 10 contenders and why they stand out:
Arch Manning, Texas
- Manning's strong finish to the 2025 season, including impressive wins over top-ranked opponents, positions him as a top contender. His ability to pass and run makes him a dual threat, and the Longhorns' playoff aspirations further elevate his profile.
- Commentary: Manning's talent and team's potential make him a strong favorite, but the competition is fierce.
Dante Moore, Oregon
- Moore's impressive passing statistics and the Ducks' strong record in his first season as a starter make him a strong candidate. The return of key players and the team's playoff aspirations further enhance his chances.
- Commentary: Moore's talent and the team's success make him a dark horse contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
CJ Carr, Notre Dame
- Carr's impressive freshman campaign and ESPN's praise position him as a rising star. His leadership and potential for improvement make him a strong contender for the future.
- Commentary: Carr's talent and the Irish's potential for a strong season make him a contender to watch.
Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss
- Chambliss' talent and the Rebels' playoff success make him a strong contender. His ability to lead the team and his potential for a strong season make him a player to watch.
- Commentary: Chambliss' talent and the team's success make him a strong contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
Julian Sayin, Ohio State
- Sayin's impressive passing statistics and the Buckeyes' strong record make him a strong contender. His talent and the team's success make him a player to watch.
- Commentary: Sayin's talent and the team's success make him a strong contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State
- Smith's impressive receiving statistics and the Buckeyes' success make him a strong contender. His talent and the team's success make him a player to watch.
- Commentary: Smith's talent and the team's success make him a strong contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
Darian Mensah, Miami
- Mensah's impressive passing statistics and the Hurricanes' success make him a strong contender. His talent and the team's success make him a player to watch.
- Commentary: Mensah's talent and the team's success make him a strong contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
Josh Hoover, Indiana
- Hoover's talent and the Hoosiers' success make him a strong contender. His ability to lead the team and his potential for a strong season make him a player to watch.
- Commentary: Hoover's talent and the team's success make him a strong contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
Sam Leavitt, LSU
- Leavitt's talent and the Tigers' success make him a strong contender. His ability to lead the team and his potential for a strong season make him a player to watch.
- Commentary: Leavitt's talent and the team's success make him a strong contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
Devon Dampier, Utah
- Dampier's talent and the Utes' success make him a strong contender. His ability to lead the team and his potential for a strong season make him a player to watch.
- Commentary: Dampier's talent and the team's success make him a strong contender, especially with the potential for a strong season.
In summary, Phil Steele's 2026 Heisman Trophy favorites are a diverse group of quarterbacks and wide receivers, with a strong emphasis on talent and potential. The competition is fierce, but these players stand out for their impressive statistics, leadership, and the potential for strong seasons.
