5 bounce back candidates for the 2026 college football season

5 bounce back candidates for the 2026 college football season originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The 2025 college football season had its ups and downs, and some could argue that several key players did not live up to their expectations.

However, ahead of the 2026 season, there is reason to believe that some of those key names will turn things around. DJ Lagway, QB, Baylor Lagway had a strong 2024 campaign as a true freshman, leading the Florida Gators to a 5-1 record in the six games that he started, leaving many optimistic about 2025. In return, he posted just under 2,300 passing yards, 17 total touchdowns, and 14 interceptions as the Gators finished 4-8.

Fast track to 2026, Lagway has transferred to his home state of Texas to play for the Baylor Bears, where he’s met with a fresh start and a new offense. Baylor brought six other offensive starters to surround Lagway, including former Gators tight end Tony Livingston, WR Dre’lon Miller from Colorado, and WR Gavin Freeman from Oklahoma State. Not to mention three new starters on the offensive line.

Some might argue that Lagway is taking a step back as far as the competition goes with a move from the SEC to the Big 12, which could open things up for him as well. Ryan Coleman-Williams, WR, Alabama As a true freshman in 2024, Williams led the Alabama Crimson Tide in receiving with 865 yards and 8 touchdowns, leaving many expecting an even bigger performance in 2025. Instead, he posted nearly 200 fewer yards (689) and half the touchdowns (4).