After a long stretch of commitments, decommitments, coaching movement, and a flood of announcements, the 2026 recruiting cycle is beginning to reach its final phase. While the next few days won’t provide every answer, the early signing window is expected to bring clarity as a large portion of prospects officially lock in their decisions.

USC currently holds the inside track toward finishing with the top overall class, but movement behind the Trojans remains intense as other major programs fight for positioning. New coaching hires, surprise flips, and the usual late-cycle drama continue to shape this class heading into signing week.

(Previous ranking update: Dec. 2)

1. USC Trojans

Previous Ranking: 1
SC Next 300 commits: 18
Top offensive commit: OT Keenyi Pepe
Top defensive commit: CB Elbert Hill

No team has built more momentum in this cycle than USC. Lincoln Riley’s staff, boosted by the addition of former Notre Dame personnel director Chad Bowden, has loaded up with talent across the board and sits firmly in control of the No. 1 spot. The Trojans have stockpiled top-300 prospects, including elite five-stars Keenyi Pepe and Elbert Hill. They also secured key flips from Oregon in defensive lineman Tomuhini Topui and quarterback Jonas Williams — both high-ceiling additions.

USC emphasized trench depth by landing defensive tackle Jaimeon Winfield out of Texas, in-state edge Simote Katoanga, and offensive lineman Esun Tafa from Utah. Pepe, a towering 6-7 and 320-pound anchor, projects as one of the top offensive tackles in the country. Hill, one of the most athletic cornerbacks in the class, has recorded game speeds surpassing 22 mph, giving the Trojans a future shutdown defender.

2. Texas Longhorns

Previous Ranking: 3
SC Next 300 commits: 14
Top offensive commit: QB Dia Bell
Top defensive commit: DE Richard Wesley**

Texas already made noise in the previous cycle with headline talent, and the Longhorns are doubling down with another elite quarterback in Dia Bell—an accurate passer with strong decision-making skills who threw for over 2,500 yards as a junior. Surrounding him are explosive receiving targets Chris Stewart and Jermaine Bishop Jr., plus five-star running back Derrek Cooper, who brings blend-of-speed-and-power versatility to the offense.

Up front, Texas added in-state offensive linemen including top-10 guard Nicolas Robertson. Defensively, the Longhorns addressed their trenches with onetime Oregon pledge Richard Wesley and several promising young interior linemen. Wesley shows burst, power, and the versatility to play multiple roles along the D-line.

3. Georgia Bulldogs

Previous Ranking: 2
SC Next 300 commits: 17
Top offensive commit: WR Kaiden Prothro
Top defensive commit: CB Justice Fitzpatrick**

Georgia rarely slides outside the national top-three under Kirby Smart, and once again the Bulldogs are loaded with top-300 talent. They did take a late hit when five-star quarterback Jared Curtis flipped his commitment elsewhere just before signing week, but the class remains among the strongest in the country.

Georgia added dynamic receivers including the lightning-fast Brady Marchese and matchup-problem Kaiden Prothro, while tight end Lincoln Keyes brings size and body control to the passing game. Defensively, the Bulldogs continue to reload with blue-chip players — highlighted by elite defensive backs Justice Fitzpatrick and Zechariah Fort. Fitzpatrick, younger brother of former NFL standout Minkah Fitzpatrick, carries premier upside at corner.

4. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Previous Ranking: 4
SC Next 300 commits: 17
Top offensive commit: TE Ian Premer
Top defensive commit: CB Khary Adams

Notre Dame steadied itself after a slow start and surged with additions across the board. The Irish strengthened their front with edge rusher Rodney Dunham and gained length in the secondary with 6-3 safety Ayden Pouncey. Cornerback Khary Adams stands out as a national-caliber defensive back with premier size and verified speed.

On offense, the line is stocked with towering talents including Tyler Merrill and Gregory Patrick. Quarterback Noah Grubbs brings poise and mechanics, while tight end Ian Premer and wideout Devin Fitzgerald — son of NFL great Larry Fitzgerald — add pass-catching firepower.

5. Oregon Ducks

Previous Ranking: 5
SC Next 300 commits: 14
Top offensive commit: TE Kendre’ Harrison
Top defensive commit: S Jett Washington

Oregon’s class is built around star tight end Kendre’ Harrison — a 6-6 red-zone nightmare with elite athleticism. The Ducks also secured five-star safety Jett Washington and added explosive defensive back Xavier Lherisse. Running back Tradarian Ball boosts the offense with explosiveness and receiving ability.

Despite a short-term decommitment from DE Richard Wesley, Oregon still landed standout defensive linemen including top in-state tackle Tony Cumberland and St. John Bosco edge Dutch Horisk. On the offensive line, five-star Immanuel Iheanacho headlines a large, physical group that includes guards Tommy Tofi and Koloi Keli.

6. Texas A&M Aggies

Previous Ranking: 6
SC Next 300 commits: 15
Top offensive commit: RB K.J. Edwards
Top defensive commit: ATH Brandon Arrington

Mike Elko wasted no time proving himself on the recruiting trail. The Aggies landed the nation’s top athlete Brandon Arrington — a player fast enough to project at corner, receiver, or returner — plus multiple defensive linemen from talent-rich regions. In-state running back K.J. Edwards adds proven production after three straight 1,500-yard seasons.

Quarterback Helaman Casuga is a sharp rhythm passer, while corner Victor Singleton — flipped from Illinois — brings top-end speed. Texas A&M is quietly building one of the more complete defensive classes in the SEC.

7. Alabama Crimson Tide

Previous Ranking: 8
SC Next 300 commits: 10
Top offensive commit: RB Ezavier Crowell
Top defensive commit: S Jireh Edwards

Alabama’s class surged late thanks to a strong summer run. Running back Ezavier Crowell highlights the offensive additions with vision, power, and downhill explosiveness. The Tide hit Georgia hard on the trail, landing edge rushers Xavier Griffin and Jamarion Matthews along with corner Jorden Edmonds.

Alabama also secured cornerback Zyan Gibson — a verified sub-4.5 athlete — and later added five-star defensive back Jireh Edwards, a physical defender with high versatility at 6-2, 200+ pounds.

8. Tennessee Volunteers

Previous Ranking: 11
SC Next 300 commits: 11
Top offensive commit: QB Faizon Brandon
Top defensive commit: DE Jordan Carter

Tennessee landed its quarterback of the future in five-star Faizon Brandon, whose accuracy and deep-ball confidence fit the Volunteers’ system perfectly. With QB turnover looming, his arrival couldn’t be timed better. On defense, recent commit Jordan Carter gives Tennessee a high-ceiling edge defender.

Tyreek King headlines a strong in-state crop, while Tristen Keys — flipped from LSU — adds ball-skills on the perimeter. The Vols also secured several big bodies including OT Gabriel Osenda (6-7, 330 lbs) and disruptive defensive tackles Zach Groves and Dereon Albert.

9. Ohio State Buckeyes

Previous Ranking: 7
SC Next 300 commits: 13
Top offensive commit: WR Chris Henry Jr.
Top defensive commit: S Blaine Bradford

Ohio State is building around one of the most gifted prospects in the entire class — 6-6 wide receiver Chris Henry Jr., a rare size-speed mismatch. Around him, the Buckeyes continue stacking talent, including four-star safety Blaine Bradford and linebacker Simeon Caldwell.

Linebacker C.J. Sanna and offensive tackle Maxwell Riley are underrated gems with the potential to be future impact players in Columbus.

10. Michigan Wolverines

Previous Ranking: 10
SC Next 300 commits: 12
Top offensive commit: RB Savion Hiter
Top defensive commit: DE Carter Meadows

Michigan followed last year’s QB success by adding another top-tier passer in Brady Smigiel — a confident, polished thrower. Running back Savion Hiter brings top-end physical traits with reliable pass-catching ability.

After losing two defensive linemen to the NFL, the Wolverines reloaded with Titan Davis, McHale Blade, and budding standout Tariq Boney. Five-star edge Carter Meadows tops the group with length and bend off the edge. Michigan also hopes for another out-of-region breakthrough with versatile Montana athlete Matt Ludwig.

11. Miami Hurricanes

Previous ranking: 9
SC Next 300 commits: 13
Top offensive prospect: OT Jackson Cantwell
Top defensive prospect: LB Jordan Campbell

Miami continues stacking impressive recruiting hauls under Mario Cristobal, pushing toward a potential third straight top-15 class. The vision is clear — build from the trenches out, and the Hurricanes are loading up on future maulers up front.

A centerpiece of that effort is No. 1 offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell, a towering 6-7, 320-pound lineman with power, mobility, and the polish to compete early. Much like former five-star Francis Mauigoa, Cantwell projects as a near plug-and-play tackle with legitimate first-round NFL upside.

Miami isn’t just building walls — they’re adding weapons. QB Dereon Coleman remains a high-ceiling passer with a smooth release, while speedster Vance Spafford, flipped from Georgia, brings elite track acceleration and game-breaking potential. On defense, Jordan Campbell (6-2, 220) headlines the class with versatility, physicality, and traits that could unlock edge-rusher stardom with college development.

If this class stays intact, Miami is shaping a future foundation built to dominate the line of scrimmage for years.

12. North Carolina Tar Heels

Previous ranking: 13
SC Next 300 commits: 9
Top offensive prospect: WR Keeyun Chapman
Top defensive prospect: CB Kenton Dopson III

Bill Belichick’s blueprint in Chapel Hill is no secret — win the trenches, build depth, then add playmakers. North Carolina’s 2026 group reflects that philosophy vividly.

In-state win Zavion Griffin-Haynes gives the Heels a long, athletic edge rusher who fits Belichick’s physical identity. Former Texas A&M commit Trashawn Ruffin (300+ lbs) adds anchored power inside, while massive trench prospect Viliami Moala brings agility and rare movement skills for his size.

Defensively, UNC landed multiple flips — including CB Jakob Weatherspoon (from Ohio State) and Kenton Dopson III (from Miami), a reclassified 2027 standout with elite speed.

Offensively, the Heels have focused on strengthening the passing attack. QB Travis Burgess impressed at Elite 11 and climbed into the SC Next 300 after showing growth in accuracy and mobility. On the perimeter, Chapman and Carnell Warren, both 6-foot-4 playmakers, give UNC size and vertical ability. Add in Carson Sneed, a TE flip from Tennessee, and suddenly this offense looks like one being built for matchup nightmares.

13. Florida State Seminoles

Previous ranking: 12
SC Next 300 commits: 8
Top offensive prospect: TE Xavier Tiller
Top defensive prospect: LB Izayia Williams

After a rough 2–10 campaign and staff overhaul, Mike Norvell is retooling through recruiting, and the early returns are promising. The Seminoles landed top-five CB Chauncey Kennon, one of the class’s most fluid cover defenders, alongside rangy LB Izayia Williams, who brings speed and pursuit range at the second level.

June delivered a massive offensive piece: TE Xavier Tiller, a 6-5 athlete with an 80-inch wingspan and contested-catch toughness. He headlines a renewed pass-catching group that also includes WR Devin Carter (son of FSU legend Dexter Carter) and dynamic Florida product Brandon Bennett.

Perhaps the most pivotal addition? QB Jaden O’Neal, flipped from Oklahoma. With a clean delivery and professional poise, he could develop into FSU’s highest-rated QB signee in four years — potentially the one to tie this entire class together.

14. LSU Tigers

Previous ranking: 15
SC Next 300 commits: 10
Top offensive prospect: WR Jabari Mack
Top defensive prospect: DT Lamar Brown

Lane Kiffin’s arrival in Baton Rouge immediately steadied the recruiting ship, and LSU kept the biggest jewel of all — No. 1 overall prospect Lamar Brown, a freak athlete at DT who could also play offensive line if needed. His quickness and flexibility at 300+ lbs make him a future SEC centerpiece.

Offensively, LSU locked in WR Jabari Mack and OT Brysten Martinez, part of a haul that includes over half of Louisiana’s top 10 players. Edna Karr teammates Richard Anderson (DT) and Aiden Hall (DB) add power and physicality, while West Coast CB Havon Finney Jr provides speed and press ability after reclassifying from 2027.

If LSU can hold this class together through transition, they could have one of the most balanced future rosters in the SEC.

15. Florida Gators

Previous ranking: 14
SC Next 300 commits: 11
Top offensive prospect: ATH Davian Groce
Top defensive prospect: DE JaReylan McCoy

Florida enters a new era post-Billy Napier, but he leaves behind a strong foundation headlined by five-star DE JaReylan McCoy, arguably the Gators’ most gifted defensive signee in over a decade. At 6-7 with elite explosiveness, McCoy projects as a future terror off the edge.

Florida supplemented with playmakers Marquez Daniel and Justin Williams, while early QB commit Will Griffin — who threw for over 10,000 HS yards — could be the future bridge from DJ Lagway. His size and arm talent give Florida a stable long-term plan at quarterback.

16. Oklahoma Sooners

Previous ranking: 16
SC Next 300 commits: 5
Top offensive prospect: RB Jonathan Hatton Jr.
Top defensive prospect: DE Jake Kreul

OU has fewer commits than its peers, but the star power is undeniable. Four-star QB Bowe Bentley is the face of the class — dual-threat, strong-armed, creative, and a natural leader. Pair him with RB Jonathan Hatton Jr., flipped from Texas A&M, and the Sooners have a dynamic future backfield.

Receiver Daniel Odom adds a polished route runner, while DL additions Brian Harris and Jake Kreul — the latter a five-star pass-rusher — give Oklahoma the edge juice needed for SEC battles.

Quality over quantity — for now.

17. Washington Huskies

Previous ranking: 18
SC Next 300 commits: 6
Top offensive prospect: OT Kodi Greene
Top defensive prospect: DE Derek Colman-Brusa

Jedd Fisch is retooling quickly in Seattle. Washington beat out rival Oregon for Kodi Greene, an athletic 300-pound tackle with upside. QB Derek Zammit brings poise and clean mechanics, while DB trio Elijah Durr, Jeron Jones, and Gavin Day reshapes a secondary needing depth.

The Huskies are quietly building balance across the board.

18. Clemson Tigers

Previous ranking: 17
SC Next 300 commits: 9
Top offensive prospect: OT Leo Delaney
Top defensive prospect: S Kentavion Anderson

Clemson may be reloading, but Dabo Swinney caught fire in March securing eight commitments — five ranked SC Next 300. Speedster WR Naeem Burroughs and deep threat Connor Salmin headline skill additions, while Clemson’s offensive line haul (Delaney, Scruggs, Wise, Guthrie, Barclay) is one of the most impressive in the nation.

Dual-threat QB Tait Reynolds could be the future successor under center, and S Kentavion Anderson gives the defense a rangy, multi-role athlete.

19. Texas Tech Red Raiders

Previous ranking: 19
SC Next 300 commits: 4
Top offensive prospect: OT Felix Ojo
Top defensive prospect: S LaDamion Guyton

Joey McGuire continues proving Tech can win big in-state battles, snagging five-star OT Felix Ojo, a prototype edge blocker with sky-high potential. The class doubled its star punch with LaDamion Guyton, a 2027 reclass safety with elite tools.

Four-star WR Chase Campbell brings production (160 catches, 35 TDs), and the secondary adds ballhawk Donovan Webb, MVP of the UA Dallas camp.

This class isn’t large — but it’s loaded.

20. SMU Mustangs

Previous ranking: 22
SC Next 300 commits: 5
Top offensive prospect: OT Sam Utu
Top defensive prospect: LB Kenneth Goodwin

After crashing the CFP party, SMU is recruiting like it intends to stay there. OT Sam Utu could start early, while explosive RB Christian Rhodes (1,200+ yards, 21+ mph speed) headlines the backfield future.

WR duo Aljour Miles II and Jakai Anderson bring playmaking ability, and DE Hudson Woods plus LB Kenneth Goodwin add pass-rush versatility to a growing defense.

21. Illinois Fighting Illini

Previous ranking: 23
SC Next 300 commits: 2
Top offensive prospect: ATH Nasir Rankin
Top defensive prospect: CB Nick Hankins

Illinois is betting big on homegrown talent. ATH Nasir Rankin projects to WR with shiftiness and basketball-style body control. Big men Casey Thomann and Tony Balanganayi add trench flexibility, while CB Nick Hankins provides aggression and motor on the perimeter.

Defensively, Illinois added DMV-area pass rusher Cam Thomas and high-motor LB Tony Williams, continuing a Midwestern toughness blueprint.

22. BYU Cougars

Previous ranking: 20
SC Next 300 commits: 3
Top offensive prospect: QB Ryder Lyons
Top defensive prospect: DE Braxton Lindsey

This could be BYU’s all-time best high school trio — TE Brock Harris, QB Ryder Lyons, and OL/DL Bott Mulitalo. Harris (6-7, fluid, physical) has national TE-1 potential, and Lyons, California’s Gatorade Player of the Year, is a huge win over Pac-12 powers.

The foundation of a future top-15 class might already be here.

23. Virginia Tech Hokies

Previous ranking: 45
SC Next 300 commits: 6
Top offensive prospect: WR Davion Brown
Top defensive prospect: LB Tyson Harley

James Franklin’s move to Blacksburg detonated the recruiting landscape — multiple Penn State flips in RB Messiah Mickens, ATH Pierce Petersohn, OTs Marlen Bright & Roseby Lubintus, and LB Mathieu Lamah.

WR Davion Brown adds vertical threat speed, while QB Troy Huhn (another PSU flip) gives VT a long-term field general. Reclaiming four-star Thomas Wilder was massive for the offensive line.

Virginia Tech went from No. 45 to top-25 recruiting power in weeks — one of the biggest risers nationally.

24. Ole Miss Rebels

Previous ranking: 21
SC Next 300 commits: 7
Top offensive prospect: RB Damarius Yates
Top defensive prospect: LB JaMichael Garrett

Even with Lane Kiffin leaving, swift promotion of DC Pete Golding kept momentum alive. RB Damarius Yates is a 2,000-yard, 30-TD machine with burst and vision. Edge duo Landon Barnes and Carmelow Reed bring developmental upside, while this class continues to take shape under new leadership.

Ole Miss isn’t resetting — they’re reloading.

26. Missouri Tigers

Previous ranking: 25

Missouri won’t reach 10 wins for a third straight season, but Eli Drinkwitz clearly has the program trending upward. The 2026 class started slower than others nationally, but surged during the fall with a strong core led by two SC Next 300 offensive linemen — Johnnie Jones and Brandon Anderson.

Jones stands 6-foot-6 with prototypical Power Four tackle traits, while Anderson (340 pounds) projects inside as a mauler with impressive movement in space. Missouri also addressed playmaking needs, securing four-star WR Jabari Brady, a lengthy pass catcher with an 81-inch wingspan who should be a red-zone weapon early.

On defense, the Tigers dipped into the JUCO ranks and landed DaMarcus Johnson, rated the No. 2 JUCO prospect nationally, giving their defensive front immediate upside and depth. The foundation is strong — a class built around size, physicality, and long-term SEC competitiveness.

27. West Virginia Mountaineers

Previous ranking: 33

Rich Rodriguez built his legacy at WVU developing overlooked talent into stars — and he’s taking the same approach in 2026. The class isn’t loaded with five-stars, but it’s deep and fits the program’s identity. Headlining the group is SC Next 300 safety Matt Sieg, a huge need add with early-playing-time potential as the Mountaineers expect turnover in the secondary.

The offensive skill room receives intriguing versatility with Tennessee RB Christopher Talley, all-purpose threat SirPaul Cheeks, and RB Amari Latimer, who could develop into the class’ breakout player thanks to his burst and physical style.

A massive recruiting win came up front with OT Kevin Brown, a flip from Penn State and the son of a former WVU lineman. He brings plug-and-play potential to an offensive line that needed upgrades. Corner Vincent Smith (6-2, 200) adds size and physicality, while athlete Jyron Hughley offers hybrid offensive upside if he develops as a passer. WVU isn’t stacking stars — they’re building a roster with toughness and identity.

28. Syracuse Orange

Previous ranking: 26

The Fran Brown era in Syracuse has been electric — on the field and in recruiting. The Orange began stacking talent after a 10-win season, highlighted by a huge upset win on the trail for WR Calvin Russell, who also plans to play basketball at Syracuse.

Defensively the Orange landed four-star pass rusher Jarius Rodgers along with Kamron Wilson, both from Florida, bringing speed and length off the edge (Wilson posted 17 sacks in 2024). The trenches gained a high-upside prospect in OT Javeion Cooper (6-5, 300), who shows surprising balance and athleticism.

Syracuse also tapped into the mid-Atlantic pipeline, signing three receivers from Delaware, including B.J. Garrett, whose frame and hands could grow him into the next Oronde Gadsden-type mismatch. With momentum in recruiting and transfers, Syracuse looks like a rising power in the ACC talent race.

29. Indiana Hoosiers

Previous ranking: 27

Curt Cignetti is building quickly in Bloomington, spearheaded by one of the program’s strongest defensive recruiting hauls in years. The Hoosiers attacked the defensive line aggressively, securing Cameron McHaney, Gabe Hill, and Kevontay Hugan — a trio of disruptive trench prospects with legitimate Power Four traits.

McHaney brings interior violence, Hill flashes first-step explosion, and Hugan offers developmental upside on the edge. The offensive side features speedster Kortez Rupert, a slot threat from East St. Louis, while Henry Ohlinger (6-1, 215) fits the mold of a Big Ten power back after rushing for 1,700+ yards and 32 TDs as a junior.

Indiana’s long-term rebuild is in motion — and it starts up front.

30. Minnesota Golden Gophers

Previous ranking: 28

Minnesota isn’t chasing stars — they’re stacking strong high three-star talent across the board. DL Howie Johnson headlines the defensive haul as an explosive in-state pass rusher with a high motor, while Aaden Aytch brings length and twitch to the edge with big upside if he develops physically.

Offensively, keeping elite in-state OL Andrew Trout and athlete-turned-TE Roman Voss (a priority hold who had Alabama interest) were major wins. Voss adds versatility and could become a matchup nightmare at tight end.

The class fits Minnesota’s style: developmental, tough, and built in the trenches.

31. Iowa Hawkeyes

Previous ranking: 30

Iowa football is built on defense, offensive line play, and consistency — and the 2026 recruiting board reflects that perfectly. Carson Nielsen (6-7, 275) is the archetype Iowa tackle prospect, long with room to grow, while Julian Manson brings a smooth, rangy linebacker profile that matches the Hawkeye mold.

Georgia LB Billy Weivoda is a high-IQ special teams standout with upside, and late cycle add QB Tradon Bessinger brings production and arm talent after topping 10,000 yards and 100+ TDs in high school. Iowa isn’t flashy — they’re efficient, and this class keeps the machine running.

32. Vanderbilt Commodores

Previous ranking: 50 — Biggest Jump in This Range

Clark Lea flipped the script in Nashville — double-digit wins, an extension, and now a statement recruiting victory: QB Jared Curtis flipping from Georgia to Vandy. It instantly becomes one of the most impactful SEC recruiting moments of the cycle. Curtis owns an elite release and arm talent, giving Vanderbilt real future offensive ceiling.

The backfield added Evan Hampton (Louisville flip) and Izayah Lee, both physical runners. Tilden Riley provides size as a future TE red-zone threat, while safety Bradley Brown headlines defensive additions. For a program historically buried in SEC recruiting, this class signals new expectations.

33. Mississippi State Bulldogs

Previous ranking: 34

Jeff Lebby’s rebuild is steep, but Mississippi State landed a massive hold with SC Next 300 safety Bralan Womack, the No. 3 player in Mississippi. WR Zayion Cotton (6-5, 215) gives the offense a future No. 1 target candidate — smooth route runner, red-zone weapon, vertical threat.

QB Brodie McWhorter owns live arm talent, while Kaleb Morris brings front-seven versatility. The top of the class is thin but promising — development will determine its success.

34. Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Previous ranking: 29

Rutgers boosted its WR room early with Dyzier Carter and Elias Coke, both capable of early snaps. Carter’s route polish stands out, while Coke brings size at 6-2. Defensively, Reece Beck offers tools and length off the edge, and Joey Kopec contributes versatile LB/RB athleticism.

Georgia product Rinaldo Callaway is raw but full of pass-rush upside. Rutgers continues to be active in Florida recruiting — the pipeline remains key to their rise.

35. Houston Cougars

Previous ranking: 31

Houston hasn’t landed a five-star high school prospect since Ed Oliver — until now. Keisean Henderson, the nation’s top dual-threat QB, changes everything. Willie Fritz is committed to developing him as a quarterback, banking on elite mobility and arm talent that flashed with a seven-TD season opener.

Even after losing WR Jayden Warren late, the offense still adds size in TE Jaivion Martin and speed with RB John Hebert (verified 4.5). If Henderson reaches his ceiling, this class could define Houston’s Big 12 future.

36. Arizona Wildcats

Previous ranking: 32

Arizona has been a roller coaster — 10 wins two years ago, then 4 wins after transition. But the future at QB might already be secured. Oscar Rios, a four-star SC Next 300 signal-caller, brings arm strength and confidence to lead the offense post-Fifita.

Joining him is four-star edge Prince Williams, a high-motor defensive disruptor who thrived against elite competition at Bishop Gorman. With those two as the core, Arizona builds toward Pac-12 contention stability.

37. Arizona State Sun Devils

Previous ranking: 37

Kenny Dillingham is rebuilding fast, and 2026 includes a potential star in QB Jake Fette, a smooth dual-threat competitor from Texas. ASU doubled up at TE, including Hayden Vercher, a polished route runner with production over 1,000 yards. On defense, Julian Hugo brings pass-rush burst after a double-digit-sack junior year.

Balanced class. Clear identity. Trending upward.

38. Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Previous ranking: 35

Jake Dickert is already changing Wake’s trajectory. The Deacons secured Sefa Sackey, a 6-7 basketball-body pass rusher with insane ceiling, and Langston Hogg, an interior lineman praised for bend and technique.

Three-star QB Grant Lawless adds long-term competition. The upside in this class is real.

39. Louisville Cardinals

Previous ranking: 36

Jeff Brohm has Louisville winning again, and recruiting reflects that. Jaydin Broadnax, a lengthy SC Next 300 corner, headlines the class. DL Sam Dawson and Josiah Hope bring trench toughness — Hope in particular could evolve into a disruptive force.

Offensively, QB Briggs Cherry continues rising after a breakout camp circuit. Steady, strong class.

40. Pittsburgh Panthers

Previous ranking: 39

Pitt hasn’t signed multiple SC Next 300 players since 2021 — that changes with Reston Lehman (OLB) and Damon Ferguson (ATH/RB). Lehman is a rangy pass rusher with coverage chops, while Ferguson offers burst, lateral quickness, and offensive versatility.

Pitt hasn’t had a 1,000-yard back since 2022 — Ferguson could be the next to break that streak with development.

41. Stanford Cardinal

Previous ranking: 40

Stanford’s rebuild continues. Dre Pollard brings elite track speed (10.6 100m), while Lasiah Jackson flips from Washington as a long future defensive anchor. Edge Keysaun Eleazer (6-5) adds pass-rush potential, and OL prospects Jalayne Miller and Blaise Thomassie offer movement skills Stanford linemen are known for.

A foundation class with athletic upside across the board.

42. NC State Wolfpack

Previous ranking: 48

Defense is the priority. NC State loaded up the secondary with five DBs, led by Jordyn Best, a 10.52 100m burner capable of locking down Power Four competition. William Vaughn headlines the offense as a TE with future mismatch ability.

Linebackers Koby Sarkodie and others give this class range and tackling ability. If the DBs hit, this class becomes a defensive turning point.

43. Maryland Terrapins

Previous ranking: 43
SC Next 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OG Day’Jon Moore
Top defensive prospect: DE Zion Elee

Maryland’s 2026 group isn’t large in numbers, but the talent they did secure carries real value. The top priority for the program has long been keeping elite local athletes from leaving the DMV, and this cycle shows progress in that area. Headlining the class is Zion Elee, the top-ranked prospect in the region — a powerful, long, and twitchy edge rusher who fits perfectly in a defensive front built around speed. Maryland plans to pair him with young standouts Zahir Mathis and Sidney Stewart, creating a potentially dangerous pass-rush trio of the future.

The Terrapins also dipped into Georgia for four-star linebacker Kaden Carter, a high-motor defender with range and verified testing numbers from national camps. He shows sideline-to-sideline ability and could contribute early on special teams before pushing for snaps at linebacker.

Offensively, the Terps invested in developmental upside. Tight ends Javonte Williams and Damon Hall Jr. both bring moldable traits — Williams with his physicality and ball skills, Hall with elite testing numbers and athletic potential. If both progress technically, they could become impact mismatches in the passing game.

44. Boston College Eagles

Previous ranking: 41
SC Next 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OG Marek Jin
Top defensive prospect: DE Mason Leak

Boston College appears to be returning to its identity under Bill O’Brien — building through the Northeast and focusing on physicality in the trenches. Nearly half of the Eagles’ current class comes from Massachusetts, Connecticut, or New York, reinforcing that local-first approach.

Mason Leak headlines the defensive group as a raw but gifted edge defender with length and upside. Development will be key, but the tools suggest breakout potential down the line. The Eagles also took two quarterbacks, including Femi Babalola, who displays arm strength, mobility, and might become one of the steals of the region if he continues improving mechanically.

The offensive line — traditionally the backbone of BC football — gets a future difference maker in four-star Marek Jin, a flexible, leverage-playing guard who finishes blocks with authority. Marcelino Antunes Jr., another in-state lineman, adds depth and could grow into a contributor with physical development and coaching.

45. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

Previous ranking: 46
SC Next 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OT Courtney Heard
Top defensive prospect: CB Traeviss Stevenson

Georgia Tech continues to prioritize the trenches under Brent Key — no surprise given his offensive line background. The 2026 class isn’t flashy but is quietly strong, particularly with in-state talent. Jaedyn Terry, a tall and fluid corner at 6-3, is one of the most intriguing defensive commits thanks to his length and upside in press coverage. Traeviss Stevenson, the lone SC Next 300 member of the class, adds another athletic defensive back with strong camp testing numbers and run-support toughness.

The Jackets also landed one of the most unique storylines in the class — twin offensive linemen Courtney and Courtlin Heard. Courtney projects as a high-ceiling tackle with movement skills rare for his size, while Courtlin fits inside as a powerful interior mauler nearing 330 pounds. If both develop properly, Tech could be building the core of a future offensive line.

46. TCU Horned Frogs

Previous ranking: 42
SC Next 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OG Vincent Johnson Jr.
Top defensive prospect: DE Jesse Ford

TCU is clearly targeting size, toughness, and disruption up front as they work to rebound and return to national contention. Their class begins defensively with in-state lineman Jesse Ford, a long and productive edge talent with twitch, bend, and room to grow. Interior defenders Maddox Flynt and Duncan McGhee join him, both showing strong hands and the ability to control gaps.

On offense, quarterback Jack Daulton flashes dual-threat traits, completing 73% of his passes last season while also posing a running threat. Protecting him will be a priority, and the Frogs addressed that by signing top-30 guard Vincent Johnson Jr., a physical blocker with power and flexibility who could anchor the interior in years to come.

47. UCLA Bruins

Previous ranking: 44
SC Next 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OT Micah Smith
Top defensive prospect: DE Carter Gooden

UCLA’s class took a major hit following the early dismissal of DeShaun Foster, resulting in multiple decommitments and an overall reset. Still, the Bruins retained some key pieces. Micah Smith, an SC Next 300 offensive tackle from Florida and former Under Armour All-American, remains committed and is one of the more polished linemen in the region.

The Bruins kept a strong defensive anchor in Carter Gooden, along with interior lineman Marcus Almada, who brings leverage and active hands. On offense, keeping Kenneth Moore — a shifty in-state receiver with smooth routes and burst — was critical after the staff turnover. Tight end Camden Jensen also brings toughness as a run blocker with receiving upside.

The class needs rebuilding, but foundational pieces remain in place.

48. Kansas State Wildcats

Previous ranking: 49
SC Next 300 commits: 0
Top offensive prospect: QB Miles Teodecki
Top defensive prospect: DE Tucker Ashford

Kansas State will need to continue identifying and developing overlooked prospects — something the program has historically excelled at. Tucker Ashford is a versatile athlete capable of lining up at tight end, quarterback, or defensive end, but projects best as a rangy pass rusher with explosiveness and strength. He and quarterback Miles Teodecki, both Texas products, form the top of the class.

Teodecki saw his profile rise rapidly over the past year, showing willingness to attack downfield and elevate an offense. Protection for him will come from a group of developmental linemen led by tackle Keegan Collins, a high three-star with frame and mobility.

49. Kansas Jayhawks

Previous ranking: 51
SC Next 300 commits: 0
Top offensive prospect: OT Kaden Snyder
Top defensive prospect: DE Hunter Higgins

Kansas continues building steadily under Lance Leipold. The class features promising linemen, including 6-5 tackle Kaden Snyder, who stands out with movement ability and pass-pro upside. At tight end, Jack Utz offers versatility as both a blocker and chain-moving receiver.

With Jalon Daniels entering his final season in 2025, Kansas has identified Jaylen Mason as a long-term developmental quarterback option. The Jayhawks also added RB Kaydin “KD” Jones, a productive back with three straight 1,000-yard seasons, offering vision and durability.

50. Utah Utes

Previous ranking: 52
SC Next 300 commits: 1
Top offensive prospect: OT Kelvin Obot
Top defensive prospect: DE Fameitau Siale

Utah has earned a reputation for scouting and developing linemen, and this class follows that blueprint. Kelvin Obot, a 6-5 SC Next 300 tackle, fits perfectly with his balance, agility, and room to add mass. On defense, Fameitau Siale brings explosive first-step burst and power off the edge.

Two Idaho standouts headline the top of the class — Obot joins LaGary Mitchell, a rangy linebacker full of raw athleticism and upside. The Utes also flipped twin receivers Jaron and Kennan Pula, continuing to strengthen the program’s regional presence.

Top Uncommitted 2026 Prospects to Watch