Every college football season brings its share of surprises—some thrilling, some disappointing. As we look ahead to 2026, a handful of talented players are primed to flip the script and remind everyone why they were once household names. Here are five bounce-back candidates ready to reclaim their spotlight.
DJ Lagway, QB, Baylor Bears
Lagway burst onto the scene as a true freshman in 2024, leading Florida to a 5-1 record in his six starts. Hopes were sky-high for 2025, but the season fell flat: he managed just under 2,300 passing yards, 17 total touchdowns, and 14 interceptions as the Gators stumbled to a 4-8 finish. Now, Lagway has transferred to Baylor in his home state of Texas, where a fresh start awaits. The Bears have loaded up around him, bringing in six offensive starters—including former Florida tight end Tony Livingston, Colorado wideout Dre’lon Miller, and Oklahoma State receiver Gavin Freeman—plus three new offensive linemen. Some might say moving from the SEC to the Big 12 is a step down in competition, but for Lagway, it could be the perfect stage for a resurgence.
Ryan Williams, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide
As a true freshman in 2024, Williams led Alabama in receiving with 865 yards and eight touchdowns, setting the stage for a breakout sophomore campaign. Instead, 2025 saw him post nearly 200 fewer yards (689) and just four touchdowns. Much of the production went to Germie Bernard, who followed coach Kalen DeBoer from Washington and has since departed for the NFL. With Bernard gone and only Noah Rogers from NC State added via the transfer portal, there are plenty of unclaimed air yards in Tuscaloosa. Expect Williams to return to form and reclaim his role as Alabama's go-to target.
Makhi Hughes, RB, Oregon Ducks
Hughes was a force of nature at Tulane in 2023 and 2024, rushing for over 1,370 yards in each season. After transferring to Oregon, he found himself buried on a deep depth chart in 2025, struggling to replicate his earlier success. But with a year of experience in the Ducks' system and a clearer path to carries, Hughes has all the tools to remind the nation why he was once one of the most electrifying backs in the country. Look for him to bounce back in a big way.
Jalen Milroe, QB, [Team]
Milroe entered 2025 with immense hype after a strong 2024 season, but inconsistency plagued his game. His dual-threat ability remains elite, and with a full offseason to refine his mechanics and decision-making, he's poised to silence critics. A bounce-back season could put him squarely in the Heisman conversation.
Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado Buffaloes
Hunter's two-way prowess made him a national sensation in 2024, but injuries and a heavy workload limited his impact in 2025. With a healthier offseason and a more balanced approach from the coaching staff, Hunter can once again be the game-changer on both sides of the ball that everyone remembers. When he's at full strength, there's no ceiling on his potential.
These five players have the talent, motivation, and circumstances to turn their fortunes around in 2026. For fans and fantasy owners alike, keep an eye on these names—they're ready to prove that last season was just a detour, not the destination.