ESPN Identifies 51 College Football Sleepers for 2026 Season

3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Aug 27

ESPN published a 51-player sleeper list for the 2026 college football season, spotlighting under-the-radar candidates to break out after injuries, transfers or limited roles in 2025.
Coaches across the Power 4 and Group of 6 helped shape the selections, and none of the players appeared on ESPN's top 100 list for 2026.
The list spans proven transfers and young reserves, including Illinois quarterback Katin Houser after a 3,300-yard season at East Carolina and Indiana running back Khobie Martin after 506 rushing yards in limited carries.
Several picks are tied to roster turnover and scheme changes, with teams replacing NFL draft departures or leaning on portal additions to fill major needs at quarterback, running back, receiver and along both lines.
ESPN framed the list as a guide to the season's likely surprise stars, noting last year's sleeper group included future first-round NFL pick Omar Cooper Jr. and SEC sacks runner-up Cashius Howell.

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