Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 3
Analyst Picks 3 Heisman Long Shots for 2026, Led by Oklahoma State QB Drew Mestemaker
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 3

Analyst Picks 3 Heisman Long Shots for 2026, Led by Oklahoma State QB Drew Mestemaker

1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 3

Summary

  • Drew Mestemaker tops Joel Klatt’s list of 2026 Heisman long shots after the Oklahoma State quarterback followed coach Eric Morris from North Texas, where he led the nation in passing yards and yards per attempt in 2025.
  • Sam Leavitt ranks next despite +2200 odds, with Klatt arguing the Arizona State transfer could surge at LSU under Lane Kiffin and Charlie Weis Jr. after entering as the portal’s highest-rated quarterback.
  • Mark Fletcher Jr. is Klatt’s No. 2 sleeper at +15000, with the Miami running back seen benefiting from defenses focused on quarterback Darrien Mensah and receiver Malachi Toney.
  • The picks lean on offensive environment as much as talent, highlighting playoff-caliber teams and high-output schemes as the clearest path for lesser-known candidates to break into the Heisman race.

Insights

After injury and missed practice, can Sam Leavitt live up to his $4 million valuation at LSU?
As player valuations soar, is college football's team-first model becoming a thing of the past?
Can Miami’s potent offense overcome its rebuilt offensive line for another championship shot?