TCU Horned Frogs

TCU enters 2026 with a revamped offense under first-year coordinator Gordon Sammis and Harvard transfer quarterback Jaden Craig. The shift to a prostyle scheme is a significant departure from the up-tempo attack of recent years. Craig's development will be critical, as he takes over for Josh Hoover and must build chemistry with a receiving corps that lost star Eric McAlister. The Frogs do return leading rusher Jeremy Payne, who closed 2025 with two 100-yard games, and second-leading receiver Jordan Dwyer (730 yards, seven touchdowns). Young wideouts Terry Shelton and Dozie Ezukanma are expected to step into larger roles. The offensive line, anchored by returning starters and key transfers Noah McKinney and Jaheim Buchanon, is touted as the deepest of Sonny Dykes' tenure, which should help Craig adjust and allow the run game to become a stabilizing force.

The Horned Frogs retained much of their defensive line, including tackle Markis Deal and end Zach Chapman, after finishing fifth in the Big 12 in rushing defense in 2025. That continuity up front is a strength. However, the linebacker corps is a major question mark after losing All-Big 12 linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr and veteran Namdi Obiazor. Max Carroll steps into the middle linebacker role, but the second spot is a competition among redshirt freshmen and transfers. How quickly that unit gels will determine whether TCU can stop the run and pressure opposing quarterbacks consistently.

Cornerback was TCU's biggest weakness last season, but there is optimism for a turnaround. Gil Jackson, a 6-foot-3 corner who earned playing time as a freshman, emerged as a top spring performer and could be a breakout player. He joins returning starter Vernon Glover Jr., and the Frogs added two transfers with Power 4 experience. All-Big 12 safety Jamel Johnson (96 tackles, five interceptions in 2025) returns as the leader of the secondary. If the cornerbacks can hold up, Johnson's playmaking ability could elevate the entire defense.

TCU returns starting kicker Kyle Lemmermann, who dealt with injuries last season but is hoping for a bounce-back year. The Frogs also added Louisiana Tech transfer punter John Hoyet Chance to handle punting duties. Solid special teams play could be a valuable asset in close games, especially as the offense and defense work through their transitions.

As one opposing Big 12 assistant noted, TCU's success will hinge on playing complementary football. The Frogs have talent and speed, but they need consistency on offense to help a defense that can be on the field too long. If Craig can manage the game and the run game can control the clock, TCU can keep its defense fresh and create more opportunities for its playmakers. The development of the new quarterback and the emergence of a second linebacker will ultimately determine whether the Horned Frogs contend in the Big 12 or face an uphill battle.