College football teams boasting most QB depth in 2026

Quarterback depth is no longer just about having a backup on the roster. It is about having a second option who can actually run the offense and win games if the starter goes down. With injuries, transfers, and constant roster movement, teams that prepare for change have a clear edge. Experience now matters just as much as raw talent. A proven starter paired with a capable backup can keep a season alive when pressure hits.

For 2026, several programs stand out because their quarterback rooms are built with both stability and upside in mind. Some teams feature two players with starting experience. Others combine a polished veteran with a former five-star recruit who is ready to grow. These rooms offer security and competition at the same time. Ranked from least to strongest, here are the college football teams with the best quarterback depth for 2026. (Via CBS Sports).

7. Texas

Arch Manning

Manning enters 2026 as the clear starter after a breakout 2025 season. He quieted doubts and established himself as one of the top returning quarterbacks in the country. His role is secure, but much of the pressure rests on who follows him.

MJ Morris

Morris brings experience from stops at NC State, Maryland, and Coastal Carolina. He has appeared in 20 games with 10 career starts. His knowledge of different systems gives Texas a steady veteran presence.

KJ Lacey

Lacey remains a developing option in the room. He has not yet proven himself as a starter, but he provides depth and competition in practice.

Dia Bell

Bell arrives as a five-star freshman and the No. 4 quarterback in the 2026 class. His future is bright, though he still needs time to adjust to college football.

6. Utah

Devon Dampier

Dampier had a breakout season with 2,490 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. He also added 835 rushing yards and 10 scores on the ground. His dual-threat ability makes him the clear starter.

Byrd Ficklin

Ficklin impressed as a freshman with 13 total touchdowns and an average of 9.0 yards per carry. His speed and playmaking give Utah a dangerous backup with game-changing potential.

5. Texas Tech

Brendan Sorsby

Sorsby transferred from Cincinnati with three seasons of starting experience. He has thrown for 5,613 yards and 45 touchdowns while rushing for 1,027 yards and 18 more scores. His resume makes him a dependable leader for the offense.

Will Hammond

Hammond showed promise in limited action before a torn ACL ended his season early. He finished with 680 passing yards, 299 rushing yards, and 12 total touchdowns. His recovery could give Texas Tech another strong option.

4. Houston

Conner Weigman

Weigman turned his career around in 2025 by leading Houston to a 10-3 record. He threw for 2,711 yards and 25 touchdowns with nine interceptions. His rushing added 700 yards and 11 scores, showing growth in all areas.

Keisean Henderson

Henderson joins as the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2026 class. His talent gives Houston a future star waiting behind a proven starter.

3. LSU

Sam Leavitt

Leavitt transferred from Arizona State after throwing for 4,652 yards and 36 touchdowns in two seasons. His record includes a Big 12 title and a College Football Playoff appearance. He is expected to lead LSU in 2026.

Husan Longstreet

Longstreet arrives from USC as a former five-star recruit. His athletic tools make him a strong backup and a long-term option for the Tigers.

2. Ohio State

Julian Sayin

Sayin is coming off a Heisman finalist season. He completed 77 percent of his passes for 3,610 yards and 32 touchdowns with only eight interceptions. His accuracy and decision-making anchor the Buckeyes.

Tavien St. Clair

St. Clair was a five-star recruit and the No. 3 quarterback in his class. His presence gives Ohio State one of the strongest backup options in the country.

1. Oregon

Dante Moore

Moore ranked among national leaders with a 71.8 percent completion rate and 30 touchdowns. His consistency and arm talent make him a projected top NFL Draft pick.

Dylan Raiola

Raiola was on pace to set records at Nebraska before a season-ending injury. He entered college as a five-star recruit and has already shown elite accuracy and poise.

Conclusion

Quarterback depth separates good teams from title contenders. Programs that prepare for change stay competitive when problems arise. Oregon sets the standard with two proven stars. Ohio State and LSU follow closely with elite talent behind their starters. Even teams lower on the list have solid plans in place. In 2026, these quarterback rooms could decide championships when the season turns on one snap.

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