CBS Sports ranks college football's Top 10 most complete rosters entering the 2026 season, analyzing the depth and balance of each team. The rankings are based on positional balance, recent signing classes, transfer portal additions, and returning production and experience.
Texas Longhorns: With a loaded roster, Texas is led by quarterback Arch Manning, who is expected to enter the NFL Draft after the season. The team has made significant offseason upgrades, including wide receiver Cam Coleman, running backs Raleek Brown and Hollywood Smothers, and linebacker Rasheem Biles.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Despite losing some key players to the NFL, Ohio State remains strong, especially on offense with quarterback Julian Sayin and receiver Jeremiah Smith. The Buckeyes have added several elite transfers, including running back Ja'Kobi Jackson and defensive backs Earl Little Jr. and Terry Moore.
Georgia Bulldogs: The Bulldogs, led by coach Kirby Smart, have an experienced offense with quarterback Gunner Stockton and tight end Lawson Luckie. The defense returns plenty of leadership, including elite defensive backs KJ Bolden and Ellis Robinson IV.
Oregon Ducks: Oregon has a strong case for the top spot with returning stars like quarterback Dante Moore and tight end Jamari Johnson. The defense is a key strength, featuring all four senior starters up front and a talented secondary.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish: After missing the College Football Playoff, Notre Dame returns a wealth of star talent on both sides of the ball. Sophomore quarterback C.J. Carr and a strong offensive line are key, while the defense shines with a secondary led by future NFL draft pick Leonard Moore.
Miami Hurricanes: The Hurricanes, national runner-up, might be even more talented this season. Offense is led by running back Mark Fletcher Jr. and wide receiver Malachi Toney, while the defense returns experience with edge rusher Marquise Lightfoot and defensive tackle Ahmad Moten Sr.
USC Trojans: USC, under coach Lincoln Riley, returns a majority of last season's squad with 15 total returning starters. The offense has nine of 11 starters back, led by quarterback Jayden Maiava and running backs Waymond Jordan. The defense has added transfers like edge rusher Zuriah Fisher.
LSU Tigers: With a new head coach, Lane Kiffin, LSU has undergone a major offseason shakeup. Kiffin has overhauled the roster with 40 new additions, including quarterback Sam Leavitt and a nearly all-new wide receiver room. The defense has added elite SEC talent with transfers like pass rusher Jaylen Brown.
Indiana Hoosiers: After losing much of its star-studded 2025 roster, the Hoosiers, led by coach Curt Cignetti, hit the jackpot with the nation's No. 1-ranked transfer portal class. The team returns some quality experience and has added transfers like quarterback Josh Hoover and offensive guard Joe Brunner.
Alabama Crimson Tide: Alabama, under coach Kalen DeBoer, has some questions on offense, but the defense returns quality depth. The secondary is a strength with junior cornerback Zabien Brown and senior safeties Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb, each expected to be Day 1-2 draft picks.
