2026 QB Rankings: Elite 11 Finals – Best Fits
- College football programs are actively recruiting the next wave of quarterbacks, each seeking a player who fits their offensive scheme adn can lead their team to success.
- Observers note his skill set mirrors that of former Volunteers standout Hendon Hooker.
- Duke is targeting a run-pass option quarterback in Walker, a three-star recruit.
Scout the future of college football! We analyze the 2026 QB class, pinpointing the best fits for each team after the Elite 11 Finals. Discover where top prospects like Faizon Brandon, Walker, Fette, Bell, and others are headed and how their unique skill sets match their new programs. The article offers in-depth insights into offensive schemes and player potential, with comparisons to current stars, and predicts how these players will impact their respective teams. News Directory 3 provides a fantastic overview of the next generation of college football quarterbacks. Discover what’s next for these rising stars and their quest to lead their teams!
College Football Teams Eye Next-Gen Quarterbacks
College football programs are actively recruiting the next wave of quarterbacks, each seeking a player who fits their offensive scheme adn can lead their team to success. Here’s a look at some of the top quarterback recruits and where they might fit best.
Tennessee Volunteers logo” style=”float:left;”>Faizon Brandon, an ESPN 300 No. 8-ranked prospect, is committed to Tennessee. Observers note his skill set mirrors that of former Volunteers standout Hendon Hooker. Tennessee’s offensive system, led by coach Josh Heupel, values quarterbacks with strong arms and mobility, traits Brandon possesses. A June 10, 2025, tweet by Billy Tucker of TheUCReport highlighted Brandon’s participation in the Elite 11 Finals.
Duke is targeting a run-pass option quarterback in Walker, a three-star recruit. According to reports, Walker’s skill set is similar to Darian Mensah, a transfer quarterback Duke recently acquired, but Walker has a stronger arm. Offensive coordinator Jonathan Brewer seeks a dynamic runner at quarterback,a trait Maalik Murphy lacked.
Arizona State is keen on quarterback Fette, ranked No.157 in the ESPN 300. Fette is compared to current Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt. Coaches appreciate Fette’s ability to extend plays and make defenses account for his running ability. Kenny Dillingham’s offensive scheme will aim to maximize Fette’s versatility.
Bell, ranked No. 6 in the ESPN 300, is heading to Texas. The Longhorns can afford to develop him at his own pace. His situation is similar to that of Arch Manning. Bell’s passing ability and running skills are seen as an upgrade over Quinn Ewers in Steve Sarkisian’s system.
Miami is set to welcome Coleman, a three-star quarterback.Nonetheless of Carson Beck’s performance, Coleman is expected to bring a dynamic element to the Hurricanes’ offense, similar to what Cam Ward provided. Coleman’s “gunslinger” mentality and arm strength are seen as ideal for Miami’s long-term quarterback plans.
Jonas Williams, ranked No. 155 in the ESPN 300, draws comparisons to former USC quarterback caleb Williams. Williams is known for his creativity and improvisational skills. He excels in chaotic situations and fits well in Lincoln Riley’s play-action offense.
Houston secured a commitment from Henderson,ranked No. 16 in the ESPN 300. Henderson’s athleticism is reminiscent of Darian Mensah, who played for current Houston coach Willie Fritz at tulane. Henderson’s future position is uncertain, but his athletic ability gives him a high ceiling.
Penn State is adding Huhn, ranked No. 198 in the ESPN 300. At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, Huhn fits the mold that coach james Franklin and offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki prefer. While not as mobile as Drew Allar, Huhn is athletic in the pocket and shows strong anticipation on play-action plays.
North Carolina’s offensive direction under Bill Belichick remains unclear, but recent quarterback additions, including three-star recruit Burgess, offer some insight. Burgess, along with South Alabama transfer Gio Lopez and 2025 commit Bryce Baker, provides dual-threat capabilities.Burgess’s athleticism and arm talent make him a player to build around.
Louisville is set to welcome Cherry, a three-star recruit, who fits Jeff Brohm’s system.Cherry’s decisiveness and speedy release make him a good fit for the Cardinals’ offense. He is similar in skill and style to Cardinals transfer quarterback Miller Moss. Louisville’s ability to surround its quarterback with talent makes it an attractive destination for quarterbacks like Cherry.