The SEC, a powerhouse in college football, is brimming with talent, and 2026 promises to be a breakout year for several players. CBS Sports' Brad Crawford highlights 12 SEC players poised for stardom, each bringing unique skills and potential to their respective teams.
1. Chase Linton, Edge, Georgia
Linton, a redshirt freshman, is poised to become a standout pass rusher. His potential was evident during spring practice and the Bulldogs' spring game. With additional snaps available off the edge, Linton could become a major contributor in passing situations. Georgia's track record of developing edge rushers adds to the excitement surrounding his future.
2. Keaton Thomas, LB, Ole Miss
Thomas, a senior, arrives at Ole Miss after earning All-Big 12 honors at Baylor. He exceeded expectations this spring, recording 99 tackles last season. Thomas is expected to become a leader in the Rebels' rebuilt linebacker room, joining a defense that leaned heavily on the transfer portal this offseason.
3. Danny Okoye, Edge, Oklahoma
Oklahoma believes Okoye possesses elite NFL-level traits. The former five-star prospect recorded two sacks as a situational pass rusher last season and is expected to see a much larger role in 2026. His combination of size, speed, and explosiveness fits perfectly in Brent Venables' aggressive defense.
4. TK Keys, WR, Tennessee
Keys, the highest-rated receiver ever signed by Tennessee, could quickly become a star in Josh Heupel's offense. Despite a limited spring, Tennessee expects him to push for a starting role. His speed and route-running ability make him an ideal fit in the Volunteers' system.
5. Devan Thompkins, DL, Alabama
Alabama added Thompkins from USC to strengthen its defensive front. The veteran defensive lineman totaled 31 tackles and three sacks last season. Coaches believe his disruptive ability could eventually make him an NFL Draft first-round prospect.
6. Caleb Odom, TE, Ole Miss
Odom gives Ole Miss another dangerous weapon in its offense. At 6-foot-5, he can line up at multiple positions and create matchup problems. Crawford noted that quarterback Trinidad Chambliss' ability to extend plays should only increase Odom's production.
7. Ben Hanks, CB, Florida
Hanks, a redshirt freshman, emerged as one of the Gators' most reliable defensive backs during spring practice. His instincts and confidence, despite his youth, make him a key player for Florida's secondary.
8. Kade Phillips, CB, Texas
Phillips, a sophomore, played in 12 games as a freshman and enters 2026 with higher expectations. Texas believes an offseason in the strength program has elevated his game. He is expected to become a key piece of the Longhorns' secondary.
9. Anto Saka, Edge, Texas A&M
Saka brings proven production to College Station after recording 12 career sacks at Northwestern. Texas A&M believes his explosiveness will translate well to SEC competition. His ability to create pressure should make him an immediate contributor.
10. Bryce Deas, LB, Auburn
Auburn's coaching staff loves Deas' athleticism and speed. He is expected to help stabilize the middle of the Tigers' defense alongside Xavier Atkins. Deas excels at attacking downhill and fitting gaps quickly, aligning perfectly with Auburn's defensive philosophy.
11. Braylon Russell, RB, Arkansas
Russell transformed his body during the offseason and impressed coaches throughout spring practice. Arkansas expects him to receive a larger workload in 2026. At nearly 240 pounds, he brings a physical running style capable of wearing down defenses.
12. Demarcus Gardner, CB, Kentucky
Gardner remained with Kentucky despite a coaching transition and impressed during spring practices. The young cornerback fits defensive coordinator Jay Bateman's aggressive scheme. Kentucky believes he can handle one-on-one responsibilities on the outside.
