Big 12 quarterback rankings reshape camp

The Big 12 enters the season with a wide array of quarterback talent across 16 programs, led by Oklahoma State’s Drew Mestemaker and featuring notable passers and dual-threats like Noah Fifita, Julian Lewis, DJ Lagway, Cutter Boley, Devon Dampier, Alonza Barnett III, Michael Hawkins Jr. and Avery Johnson, signaling a rich mix of playmaking options. The conference blends seasoned starters with newcomers across programs such as Kansas, Cincinnati, Oklahoma, West Virginia and others, resulting in a quarterback landscape described as deep and versatile. UCLA’s 2026 outlook in the Big Ten remains uncertain despite a major offseason overhaul of coaches and transfers, with observers placing the Bruins toward the bottom of the conference as they rebuild under new leadership. A Pac-12 preseason piece highlights strong position units, including a standout quarterback in Brad Jackson at Texas State and high-level running back duos like Dylan Riley and Sire Gaines, underscoring depth across the top units. Oklahoma State fans get a clear preseason marker with a two-week warning for camp, as Eric Morris prepares to assess a roster rich in talent and multiple position groups, including the ongoing question at backup quarterback behind Mestemaker. East Carolina enter preseason with multiple unknowns, from quarterback Mitch Griffis vs. Emory Williams to new coordinators and a defensive overhaul, as camp kicks off on August 5 ahead of a challenging schedule, including a visit from Alabama.