2026 MAC Preseason Award Watchlist Tracker
A complete list of the MAC stars recognized this preseason, award by award.
College football is around the corner, and nothing signifies that more than the release of preseason watchlists.
The 2026 watchlist series launched Monday, Aug. 3 with the release of the Maxwell Award watchlist, and it continues through Aug. 21.
Below we have documented a complete list of MAC players whose names adorn the 16 preseason watchlists recognized by the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA) for 2026:
Maxwell Award
Release date: August 3
Who wins this award? “Presented annually to the top player in the nation.”
MAC selections:
- Jordan Gant, RB, Akron (Sr.)
- Broc Lowry, QB, Western Michigan (Jr.)
- Jalen Buckley, RB, Western Michigan (Sr.)
Full list (81 members)
Bronko Nagurski Trophy
Release date: August 4
Who wins this award? “Created in 1993 by the Football Writers Association of America, the Bronko Nagurski Trophy is awarded to the best defensive player in college football and is presented by the Charlotte Touchdown Club.”
MAC selections:
- Bryce Llewellyn, SS, Eastern Michigan (Sr.)
- Josh Franklin, CB, Western Michigan (Sr.)
Full list (68 members)
Outland Trophy
Release date: August 4
Who wins this award? “Presented to the nation’s best interior lineman... Only interior linemen on offense or defense are eligible for the award; ends are not eligible.”
MAC selections:
- Evan Malcore, OT, Miami (OH) (Sr.)
- Chad Schuster, OT, Western Michigan (Sr.)
Full list (49 members)
