2025 NCAAF Preseason Top 100: Surprises, Snubs, and Rising Stars

Who Should’ve Made the Top 10?

Andrea Adelson: Alabama WR Ryan Williams deserves a top 10 spot. His dynamic play as a true freshman, averaging 18 yards per catch, showcases his potential. With a full offseason to refine his skills, Williams is poised for a breakout year.

Heather Dinich: Alabama LT Kadyn Proctor, at 6-foot-7 and 366 pounds, is arguably the best offensive lineman in the country. His athleticism and leadership will be crucial for Alabama’s offensive success.

Max Olson: Penn State RB Nicholas Singleton, who rushed for 1,099 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, was a surprising omission from the top 10. His all-purpose yards and consistency make him a standout player.

Who Should’ve Been in the Top 50?

Heather Dinich: Navy QB Blake Horvath’s dual-threat capabilities make him a top contender. With 1,246 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, Horvath redefined Navy’s traditionally run-based offense.

Max Olson: Texas Tech’s edge rusher David Bailey and LSU linebacker Whit Weeks were undervalued. Bailey’s potential under new defensive coordinator Shiel Wood and Weeks’ SEC-leading tackles make them players to watch.

Who Could Rise in the Midseason Rankings?

Kyle Bonagura: Alabama QB Ty Simpson, under the guidance of Kalen DeBoer and Ryan Grubb, is expected to have a breakout season. Their track record with quarterbacks suggests Simpson will shine.

Max Olson: Texas WR Ryan Wingo, with his 6-foot-2 frame and 572 yards in his debut season, is poised to become a go-to target for Arch Manning.

Biggest Surprises from the Preseason List

Jake Trotter: Nine quarterbacks in the top 30 highlight the depth of talent at the position this season. This could be a historic year for college football quarterbacks.

Kyle Bonagura: Arch Manning’s No. 23 ranking is based on potential rather than proven performance. Few players receive such a benefit of the doubt.

Heather Dinich: Despite the hype around Penn State, the Nittany Lions lack a player in the top 15. Their performance against Ohio State will be pivotal in determining their standing.

Unranked Players Who Deserve Recognition

Andrea Adelson: Duke QB Darian Mensah, with his impressive stats at Tulane, brings value to Duke’s offense. His athleticism and deep ball ability make him a player to watch.

Chris Low: Auburn receivers Eric Singleton Jr. and Cam Coleman are among the most talented pass catchers in the country. Their inclusion in the top 100 is overdue.

Adam Rittenberg: Notre Dame OL Aamil Wagner, Army’s Brady Small, and Iowa’s Gennings Dunker are offensive linemen who deserve recognition for their contributions.

Conclusion

The 2025 NCAAF preseason top 100 player rankings have sparked debates about player placements, notable omissions, and potential breakout stars. As the season unfolds, these rankings will undoubtedly evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of college football.