As the 2025 college football season approaches, ESPN has spotlighted several players as early contenders for the prestigious Heisman Trophy.

As the 2025 college football season approaches, ESPN has spotlighted several players as early contenders for the prestigious Heisman Trophy.

Notably, Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava leads the pack, reflecting his impressive performances and potential.

 

Nico Iamaleava, QB, Tennessee Volunteers

 

In his debut season as the starting quarterback, Iamaleava demonstrated remarkable skill and resilience. He completed 65.7% of his passes, amassing 2,512 yards with 19 touchdowns against just five interceptions. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Volunteers to an 11-2 record, culminating in a berth in the College Football Playoff. Iamaleava’s late-season surge, particularly his standout performances against Kentucky, Mississippi State, and Vanderbilt, showcased his growth and readiness to lead Tennessee in the upcoming season.

 

Arch Manning, QB, Texas Longhorns

 

Arch Manning, following in the footsteps of his illustrious family, is poised to take over as Texas’ starting quarterback with Quinn Ewers likely entering the NFL Draft. In the previous season, Manning gained valuable experience, participating in eight games and completing 61 of 90 passes for 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also showcased his mobility, rushing for 100 yards and four touchdowns. Manning’s dual-threat capability positions him as a formidable Heisman candidate.

 

LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina Gamecocks

 

LaNorris Sellers emerged as a dynamic playmaker for South Carolina, leading the team to a 9-3 record, including a six-game winning streak to conclude the season. Renowned for his electrifying running ability, Sellers’ performances have made him a fan favorite and a serious contender for college football’s highest honor.

 

Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

 

Jeremiyah Love was a consistent force for Notre Dame, setting a school record by scoring touchdowns in all 12 games of the season. He accumulated over 900 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns, demonstrating a knack for breaking tackles and accelerating in the open field. With quarterback Riley Leonard moving on, Love is expected to shoulder a more significant offensive role, enhancing his Heisman prospects.

 

Ryan Williams, WR, Alabama Crimson Tide

 

As a freshman, Ryan Williams made an immediate impact, recording over 850 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. His standout moment came with a 75-yard game-winning touchdown against Georgia, highlighting his big-play potential. If Alabama’s passing game continues to evolve, Williams could follow in the footsteps of former Crimson Tide receivers like DeVonta Smith in the Heisman race.

 

Other notable players on ESPN’s early Heisman watchlist include Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt, SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, Oregon running back Jordan James, Georgia running back Nate Frazier, Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik, and Florida quarterback DJ Lagway.

 

As the season unfolds, these athletes will have the opportunity to solidify their candidacies and compete for college football’s most coveted individual award.