For the 2026 college football season, Forbes highlights the top 10 players outside the power conferences, spotlighting a mix of dynamic quarterbacks, versatile edge rushers, and standout skill players. Among them is Brad Jackson, the redshirt sophomore quarterback from Texas State, known for his dual-threat capability with over 700 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns in 2025. Jackson now leads Texas State in their first year in the revamped Pac-12, aiming to build on an offense that ranked fifth nationally in yardage last year.

UTSA’s Owen McCown is another key quarterback to watch. A lefty with a strong track record of 30 touchdown passes and limited interceptions last season, McCown draws on NFL pedigree as the son of former pro Josh McCown. Meanwhile, running back Lucky Sutton of San Diego State established himself as a workhorse during 2025, rushing for nearly 1,300 yards and becoming a Doak Walker semifinalist. Boise State’s Jayden Virgin-Morgan stands out as a top edge rusher aiming to help his team become a playoff contender. His contributions landed him on prestigious preseason defensive watch lists after a 2025 season with six sacks and 13 tackles for loss.

The list also features several other impact players, including Easton Messer, who led the nation in receptions per game at FAU, and Georgia Southern’s M.J. Stroud, recognized for his disruptive defensive presence with 15.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. Army’s center Brady Small is a key lineman on a top offensive front, while Navy’s Braxton Woodson steps up as the new quarterback with dual-threat potential. Troy’s Donnie Smith and Temple’s tight end Peter Clarke round out the group, showcasing strong defensive versatility and impressive receiving skills, respectively.

These players reflect the depth of high-level talent in non-power conferences this season, each poised to make an impact both statistically and in leadership roles for their teams. Their performances could shift the competitive balance and provide fresh narratives outside the traditional college football powerhouses in 2026. As these athletes develop, they are worth monitoring for potential NFL futures and notable contributions to the shifting landscape of college football’s evolving conferences.