Uncover the Next Heisman Hopefuls

2024 Heisman Runner-Up: Ashton Jeanty's Close Call

Ashton Jeanty's journey to the Heisman Trophy was a close one. His exceptional skills on the field left many wondering if he should have walked away with the prestigious award. His performance in 2024 demonstrated his potential and set the stage for what could be an even more remarkable 2025.

Jeanty's dedication and talent were on full display, and he will be looking to build on this experience as he continues to pursue his football dreams.

Heisman Trophy Contenders 2025

LSU's Garrett Nussmeier emerged as a force to be reckoned with in 2024. Standing at 6-foot-2, he showcased his ability to sling the football with precision. Despite the Tigers' struggles towards the end of the season, Nussmeier's stats were impressive, passing for 3,739 yards with 26 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions. With his return for the 2025 season, he is hoping to have a big final year and make a strong case for the Heisman.

Texas' Arch Manning is another name to watch. After sitting behind Quinn Ewers for the past two years, Manning is expected to take the reins as the starter next season. His two starts this year were solid, completing 26 of 31 passes for 325 yards and two touchdowns, along with six rushes for 33 yards and another score. In a 35-13 win over Mississippi State, he showed his potential. As the nephew of Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning, he has big shoes to fill, but he is ready to make his mark in Heisman contention.

WR Ryan Williams: Alabama's Early Star

Ryan Williams, a former 5-star recruit, made an immediate impact at Alabama in 2024. At just 17 years old, he became one of the best receivers in the country. With 45 catches for 857 yards and eight touchdowns, he showed his talent and potential. As he enters his actual freshman season, he is expected to build on his performance and become an even more dominant force.

Williams' early success at Alabama is a testament to his skills and determination, and he will be looking to continue his upward trajectory in 2025.

WR Jeremiah Smith: Ohio State's Rising Star

Jeremiah Smith, another former 5-star recruit, had a standout freshman season at Ohio State. As the Buckeyes' leading receiver, he caught 57 passes for 934 yards and 10 touchdowns, while also rushing four times for 47 yards and another score. His chemistry with quarterback Julian Sayin could form one of the best young quarterback-receiver duos in college football next season.

Smith's performance in 2024 has set the stage for an exciting sophomore year, and he will be looking to build on his success and become a household name in college football.

QB LaNorris Sellers: South Carolina's Late-Bloomer

LaNorris Sellers had a rocky start to his first year as South Carolina's starter but found his rhythm late in the season. Completing 172 of 265 passes for 2,274 yards with 17 touchdowns and only seven interceptions, he led the Gamecocks to a 9-3 record and a narrow miss at a College Football Playoff berth. His rushing ability added another dimension to his game, with 655 yards and seven touchdowns.

If Sellers can maintain his late-season form throughout the 2025 slate, he could be a force to be reckoned with and a serious Heisman contender.

QB Cade Klubnik: Clemson's Potential Star

Cade Klubnik took a significant step forward in 2024, passing for 3,305 yards with 33 touchdowns and only five interceptions, while also rushing for 458 yards and seven scores. With one more season of eligibility, he is facing a decision between the NFL draft and returning to Clemson to try and earn a top quarterback spot in the 2026 NFL draft.

Klubnik's stock could rise significantly with a strong performance in the CFP, especially against No. 5 Texas in the first round. His potential is undeniable, and he will be looking to make the most of his final college football season.

QB DJ Lagway: Florida's Late-Season Hero

DJ Lagway showed flashes of brilliance for the Florida Gators in 2024. After starter Graham Mertz suffered a season-ending injury, Lagway earned the full-time job and led the team to ranked wins over LSU and Ole Miss in back-to-back weeks. As a true freshman, he completed 93 of 157 passes for 1,610 yards with 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Lagway's ability to turn the Gators around late in the year is a testament to his talent and leadership. He will be looking to build on this success and become a key player in the 2025 season.

RB Jeremiyah Love: Notre Dame's Workhorse

Jeremiyah Love averaged an astonishing 7.1 yards per carry in 2024, rushing for 949 yards and 15 touchdowns on only 134 carries. His volume could increase in his junior season, making him one of the most productive running backs in college football. In addition to his rushing ability, he caught 22 receptions for 206 yards and two touchdowns.

Love's impact on the field is undeniable, and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will rely on him heavily in the College Football Playoff.

QB Nico Iamaleava: Tennessee's Talented Signal-Caller

Nico Iamaleava, one of the most talented quarterbacks in college football, had a solid first season as Tennessee's starter. Completing 199 of 303 passes for 2,512 yards with 19 touchdowns and five interceptions, while also rushing for 311 yards and another score, he showed his potential. Despite not being dominant in 2024, his advanced skills for his age and limited experience make him a player to watch in 2025.

Iamaleava is ready to take on a bigger role and potentially become a Heisman candidate as he continues to develop his game.

QB John Mateer: Washington State's Transfer Sensation

John Mateer, a first-year starter at Washington State, generated a lot of buzz after the regular season. Completing 224 of 347 passes for 3,139 yards with 29 touchdowns and seven interceptions, while also rushing for 826 yards and 15 touchdowns, he led the nation in touchdowns. His decision on whether to return to the Cougars or enter the transfer portal is still up in the air, but he has already proven himself to be a potential Heisman contender.

Mateer's former offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle recently took the same job at Oklahoma, adding another layer of intrigue to his future. Regardless of where he plays next year, he is sure to be a player to watch.