College Football Preseason Watch Lists Highlight 12 Players

The Rimington Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top center, released its 2026 preseason watch list, naming four players: Florida Atlantic’s graduate offensive lineman Vincent Fiacable, UAB’s graduate center Adam Lepkowski, Utah State junior Jimmy Liston, and Penn State redshirt sophomore Brock Riker. Each has been a starter for their respective teams and earned conference or academic honors.

The John Mackey Award, recognizing the nation’s best tight end, announced its 2026 watch list with eight selections: Louisiana Tech senior Eli Finley, North Carolina transfer Jelani Thurman, Arkansas senior Jaden Platt, BYU junior Walker Lyons, Oregon junior Jamari Johnson, Ohio State tight end Hunter Welcing, plus additional candidates from other programs. The honorees have posted notable receiving numbers and earned all‑conference or academic accolades during the previous season.

All listed athletes are entering their final collegiate seasons and will compete for the awards, which are evaluated throughout the year based on performance and leadership.