5 true freshmen to watch in the 2026 college football season
These true freshmen players can make an impact in the 2026 CFB season.
5 true freshmen to watch in the 2026 college football season originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . There are several incoming true freshmen that are set to make immediate impacts in the 2026 college football season.
Many of whom are projected starters on offseason depth charts, and others who could make an impact later on in the season. Jared Curtis, QB, Vanderbilt Jared Curtis is being given the keys to the Vanderbilt program as a true freshman following the hype that Diego Pavia brought to the Commodores over the last two seasons. Curtis was a top-3 recruit across all platforms and the second-ranked QB in the 2026 class.
He’s been listed as the starter across multiple outlets. He showed glimpses of his potential in the Vanderbilt spring game, throwing for 88 yards and leading two scoring drives. Vandy brought in three new starters on the offensive line, two receivers, and no QBs as they commit to him this season.
Chris Henry, WR, Ohio State This one should not come as a surprise. Chris Henry was the top receiver in the 2026 class, and given their success with Jeremiah Smith as a true freshman, we can fully expect to see him involved early in the season. Henry caught a 40-yard touchdown pass from sophomore QB Tavien St.