Dark horse candidates emerge for 2026 Heisman Trophy race
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 5:10 AM
Last updated Jul 6, 2026
The 2026 Heisman Trophy race has several unexpected candidates gaining attention, including Miami WR Malachi Toney, Alabama QB Keelan Russell, and Washington QB Demond Williams. Each player has shown significant potential and could surprise voters as the season progresses. Toney amassed 109 receptions, 1,211 yards, and 10 touchdowns in 2025, while Russell, a 5-star recruit, is seeking to secure the starting quarterback position at Alabama. Williams displayed versatility and strong performance in 2025, throwing for 3,065 yards and 25 touchdowns. As the season unfolds, these players could play pivotal roles in their teams' successes and the Heisman.
- •Malachi Toney had a standout freshman year at Miami with 1,211 receiving yards.
- •Keelan Russell is still vying for the starting QB role at Alabama.
- •Demond Williams showed versatility with over 3,600 total yards and 31 touchdowns last season.
- •The season offers opportunities for these players to elevate their profiles.
- •Historically, surprise Heisman winners have emerged from lower expectations.
- 5:10 AMYahoo Sports — 3 dark horse Heisman Trophy candidates who could come out of nowhere in 2026
"The race for college football's premier award is wide open, and a trio could find themselves vaulting up voters' lists by November.
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