2026 Heisman Trophy Predictions: Ranking the Top 10 Candidates Ahead of Week 6

As every Heisman Trophy contender knows, college football boasts immense talent, yet only one player ultimately claims the prestigious title. Winning the Heisman is a golden ticket to the top of the NFL draft, with past winners such as Fernando Mendoza, Travis Hunter, Jayden Daniels, and Caleb Williams attesting to this. With this context in mind, here's an analysis of the top 10 players who have made a compelling case to win the award heading into Week 6.

#10 – Princewill Umanmielen, DE, LSU Tigers: Umanmielen has excelled in pressuring quarterbacks, recording eight sacks this season. While defense isn't typically associated with the Heisman, Umanmielen stands a strong chance of winning if he can maintain his performance.

#9 – Dylan Riley, RB, Boise State Broncos: Riley leads college football in total rushing yards and boasts a formidable 6.3 yards per carry. He has also scored five touchdowns on the ground, making him a reliable threat. However, Riley still has room for improvement if he wants to overtake the other top contenders.

#8 – Jayden Maiava, QB, USC Trojans: Despite not being among the top 5 favorites, Maiava has performed admirably for USC. He ranks third in passing touchdowns and second in passing yards, but recent defeats against Oregon and Washington cast doubt on his chances of winning the Heisman.

#7 – Malachi Toney, WR, Miami Hurricanes: Toney has been a dominant force for Miami, amassing 604 receiving yards and six touchdowns. While he doesn't lead college football in these categories, it's historically challenging for a receiver to claim the Heisman. Additionally, Toney faces competition from another quarterback on this list.

#6 – Jadan Baugh, RB, Florida Gators: Baugh leads the FBS in rushing touchdowns (11) and is fifth in rushing yards. His impressive 6.5 yards per carry surpasses Dylan Riley's 6.3, positioning him as the most likely back to win the Heisman this year.

#5 – Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State Buckeyes: With a first-place finish in receptions, yards, and receiving touchdowns, Smith is a formidable contender for the Heisman. Notably, since 2020, two receivers have won the award, which adds to the likelihood of Smith claiming the title in 2026.

#4 – Gunner Stockton, QB, Georgia Bulldogs: Stockton is tied for ninth in touchdown passes and third in passer rating at 202.1 (ESPN). His impressive performance, coupled with Georgia's high visibility, makes him a top contender for the Heisman.

#3 – Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State Buckeyes: Since 2021, four of the last five Heisman Trophy winners have been quarterbacks. Sayin, who has thrown just one interception to 13 touchdowns, embodies the qualities needed to win the award. His explosive and reliable playstyle makes him a strong candidate.

#2 – Josh Hoover, QB, Indiana Hoosiers: Despite Fernando Mendoza's absence, Indiana's quarterback room has remained strong. Hoover has thrown for 15 touchdowns, zero interceptions, and maintains a respectable 71% completion rate, keeping him in contention for the Heisman.

#1 – Darian Mensah, QB, Miami Hurricanes: Mensah has been an upgrade from Carson Beck, as he has thrown for 15 touchdowns and not a single interception this season. With an impressive 84.2% completion rate, Mensah has emerged as a frontrunner for the Heisman, potentially surpassing his predecessor.