The standout recruits of the 2026 class have made their school commitments, and for some, spring football is just around the corner.
A perfect blend of talent and system can drive success on the field. Here’s a look at how the top 2026 recruits at each position might transition to their new teams:
Ranking: SC Next No. 4
Outside of Ed Oliver, Henderson is the most notable prospect to commit to Houston in recent times, and expectations are high.
With exceptional performance against elite Texas competition and an innate understanding of the game, Henderson doesn’t need to be the centerpiece from the start, particularly with Conner Weigman returning. yet, his skills make him too valuable to keep off the field. Look for him to participate in specific plays, red zone strategies, and potentially game-changing moments.
For a program under the direction of head coach Willie Fritz, this recruit signifies a pivotal shift. While Henderson has elements to refine, his arm strength, athleticism, and instincts will provide Houston with an essential dynamic.
Ranking: SC Next No. 12
When Vanderbilt manages to secure a quarterback amidst competition from top-tier programs, it certainly attracts attention. Curtis comes in with sky-high expectations, possibly second only to Arch Manning at Texas. yet, he won’t enter a flawless scenario akin to Diego Pavia’s.
Curtis possesses the physical attributes: strength, size, and agility, but transitioning from a lower-tier high school league to the SEC will be challenging. The essential objective for Curtis is to be true to himself, navigate initial challenges, and develop into his distinctive role. His growth trajectory will play a critical role in elevating Vanderbilt’s offense.
Ranking: SC Next No. 13
In Austin, patience is key to development—something Arch Manning benefitted from earlier. Bell embodies this approach. He is primarily a passer with superior mobility compared to Quinn Ewers and has the physical potential to bulk up. He has faced tough competition and consistently delivered results.
Durability is the primary concern. Bell has had injuries, and maintaining his health will be crucial once Manning moves on to the NFL. If he develops steadily without being rushed, Texas fans could witness the emergence of a refined, NFL-caliber quarterback.
Ranking: SC Next No. 14
Tennessee promotes an offensive system that encourages quarterbacks to launch deep throws. Brandon boasts a powerful arm, surprising agility, and physical characteristics reminiscent of Hendon Hooker. though he isn’t yet as refined as Nico Iamaleava, his ability to throw deep aligns seamlessly with the team’s offensive style.
With Joey Aguilar’s eligibility denied by a Tennessee state judge, Brandon’s competition is limited. He may find himself in contention sooner than expected. For Volunteers fans, his arm strength is certainly something to get excited about.
Ranking: SC Next No. 50
Quarterback development at BYU tends to take time, and Lyons is likely to follow suit. A redshirt season and potential mission could help him grow both physically and mentally before stepping into a leadership role. Among the 2026 class, he stands out for his polished passing skills and ability to deliver exceptional deep balls, ideal for BYU’s offensive philosophy.
Lyons also exhibits versatility; he’s calm under pressure, effective on the run, and has a knack for extending plays. If nurtured properly, he could emerge as the next standout quarterback in Provo.
Ranking: SC Next No. 112
Bentley possesses an undeniable “it” factor—competitive spirit, swift release, and a fearless mindset. His play style and swagger draw parallels to Baker Mayfield.
With John Mateer returning in 2026 and a recent shift in the quarterback lineup, Bentley could rapidly ascend to the QB2 position. He thrives in chaos, showing aggression and confidence. His next goal is to harmonize his innate talent with structured discipline. If successful, Oklahoma might just have its next dynamic playmaker.
Ranking: SC Next No. 121
Thomalla would benefit from a period of development. With the starting role likely contested between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell, a redshirt year would allow him to refine his skills. While he has immense upside, his technique still requires polishing.
Resourceful and composed under pressure, Thomalla keeps his eyes downfield and possesses the ability to drive the ball vertically. Unlike some prospects who seem better in practice than on film, Thomalla excels in both realms—he simply knows how to play and win.
Ranking: SC Next No. 135
Standing at 6-4 and weighing 230 pounds, Griffin presents as a quintessential college quarterback right from the get-go, with experience on significant stages. He has a robust arm capable of reaching all field levels and exhibits better movement than his size suggests, paralleling Fernando Mendoza’s style.
With a new coaching staff and DJ Lagway’s exit, opportunities could arise swiftly for Griffin. Should he be thrust into action early, his experience and physical preparedness might enable him to handle the challenge. He has the physical attributes to contribute, but adjustments in processing and progressions are standard for most freshmen.
Ranking: SC Next No. 138
Williams showcases a creativity similar to Caleb Williams, extending plays and thriving outside conventional structures while altering arm angles on the fly. In Lincoln Riley’s dynamic system, this creative potential is invaluable.
The best-case scenario for Williams involves a redshirt year with minimal play under the four-game rule. This period would allow him to develop within a system while showcasing his excitability. If it all comes together, USC fans will have yet another captivating quarterback to follow.
