Heisman Trophy watch list: Jeremiah Smith, CJ Carr lead the way

It's always exciting to see young players trying to make a name for themselves in college football.

Here are five players you should keep an eye out for this upcoming season.

Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State

The All-American wide receiver is coming in for his third year at Ohio State on a high note.

While the Heisman is typically awarded to quarterbacks, it's not uncommon to see other positions receive it; note Travis Hunter and Davonta Smith in the last six years.

Smith is coming into this season with big expectations; one great season could land him a top spot in the 2027 Draft and the Heisman Trophy.

The past two seasons, we've seen some big plays from the 20-year-old, so this year should be nothing short of exciting.

CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame

Probably not as talked about as other college players, Carr made a good impression last season, his first as a starter at Notre Dame.

The Fighting Irish have a shot at getting far into the season, even the playoffs, with a decent schedule like the one they have.

Carr will have a chance to prove himself and up his game to prove he deserves a spot with the big names.

Arch Manning, QB, Texas

Already projected as the 2027 No. 1 overall pick, Manning has a lot of pressure on his shoulders, but he still has a chance to achieve what his uncles never could: win a National Championship or the Heisman Trophy... so why not both?

The Longhorns are coming into the season with a great new addition, wide receiver Cam Coleman, who should find a great connection with Manning.

Manning is coming into his second season as a starter in Austin after a 'disappointing' 2025, in which the Longhorns missed the playoffs.

Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State

Sayin is not unfamiliar with the Heisman Trophy environment; after an unbelievable (redshirt) freshman year, Sayin finished fourth in the 2025 Heisman Trophy voting.

The Sayin-Smith combo will be a big asset for Ohio State this season, and for both players to push each other's Heisman campaigns as well.

Last season, he led the league in pass completion percentage (77%), threw for 3,610 yards and led the Buckeyes to the CFP semifinals.

Although only a sophomore, Sayin will be eligible for the 2027 Draft, for which he is already predicted as a first-round pick.

Dante Moore, QB, Oregon

Arguably one of the most hyped-up quarterbacks this offseason, Moore will come in trying to prove it hasn't been just talk.

Moore threw for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns last season and made it to the CFP semifinals.

The 21-year-old made third-team All-Big Ten after his performance.

While there are some difficult games on Oregon's schedule, like Ohio State, USC and Michigan, it'll be up to Moore to show what development he had this offseason if he wants a happy ending to what could be his last season in college football.

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