Pok’s Column: College Football National Signing Day Breakdown

It was a very eventful Early National Signing Day in the college football world, and for the FIU Panthers, USF Bulls, and Florida Atlantic Owls. Additionally, there were some significant national developments that could send ripples all across the country.

Recruiting never sleeps in the college football world, but one of the biggest days of the year is here! All across the country, high school players are signing their National Letters of Intent and officially deciding on where to play at the next level. There are flips, shocking decisions, and confirmation of rumors. But most importantly, it is the biggest step in the journey of thousands of high school football players who are taking the biggest step of their young careers.

In lieu of a wide-ranging column, this week’s edition is all about recruiting!

College Football 2026 Recruiting Class: National Signing Day

USF Bulls

With Alex Golesh’s departure, there was a large amount of chaos thrown into USF’s signing day for the class of 2026. A handful of recruits, such as quarterback Rhys Brush and offensive lineman Mykall-Lundy Foster, flipped to Auburn with the former head coach. Others, such as Josiah Dozier, Benjamin Corhei, and Jaemin Pinckney, flipped to new schools.

Despite this, the Bulls were still able to land a very good class. The program left the first day of the window with 17 players officially set to head to Tampa Bay to pursue their college football career. With new head coach Brian Hartline now in place, here is the full list of players.

• Jayson Franklin, RB (Fayetteville, NC)
• Jordan Harrison, OL (Clinton, MD)
• Gabe Legrand, WR (Lake Wales, FL)
• Dmari Roberts, WR (St. Petersburg, FL)
• Amari Jones, S (Dunnellon, FL) 
• CJ Cresser, CB (Brooksville, FL) 
• Lorenzo Barnes, LB (Marianna, FL) 
• Keyshaun Birks, CB (St. Petersburg, FL) 
• Iverson Garcia-Ponce, DL (Knoxville, TN)
• Demetrius Geathers Jr., EDGE (Deerfield, FL) 
• Dennis King III, LB (Daytona Beach, FL)
• Masiyah Limehouse, CB (Plant City, FL)
• Derrick Nichols III, CB (Miami, FL) 
• Sager Quinn, DL (Cahutta, GA)
• Peter Ramil, EDGE (Binghamton, NY)
• Ja’Kyri Watson, CB (Kissimmee, FL)

Names to Know

In their 2026 class, USF landed a lot of players who should be able to help the Bulls in a big way once they step onto the field. Within this class, though, here are some names to keep an eye on.

• Gabe Legrand, WR: A smooth route-runner with upper-level speed, the Lake Wales standout has made big plays all over the field in his senior season. On 36 receptions, Legrand had 574 receptions and nine touchdowns, racing by defenders or routing them up. Legrand’s best plays have come in the red zone this season, including a ridiculous one-handed catch that made its way onto the official MaxPreps Twitter page. With all of his ability, Legrand has a chance to be an instant impact player for the Bulls.

• Dmari Roberts, WR: Dmari Roberts is a big play waiting to happen. Racking up 501 yards and five touchdowns this season, the wideout consistently won downfield with speed and separation. In his senior season, Roberts’s route running and blocking took another step forward. He helped spring big plays and attacked defensive backs at the top of his routes. With Brian Hartline now at USF, he can continue to excel.
• Jayson Franklin, RB: Continuing on the offensive side of the ball, Jayson Franklin is as dynamic as they come at the running back position. In nine games, Franklin ran for 1486 yards and 17 touchdowns on 134 carries. The North Carolina native has also posted over 1200 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in his last three high school seasons. Possessing great vision and burst, Franklin always knows how to attack runs in the correct way. Add in impressive speed and a wide array of ball-carrier moves, and the running back is truly an impressive all-around threat.
• Jordan Harrison, OL: A Maryland native, Harrison has the strength and movement skills to be an immediate asset at multiple positions along the offensive line. He has shown to be a very good run blocker already, and he has great footwork and hands as a pass blocker. Harrison should fit nicely into any scheme USF runs under Brian Hartline.
• Amari Jones, Safety: According to 247Sports, Jones was the top-rated recruit in USF’s class. And if you watch a bit of his game, that is for good reason. As a run defender, Jones flies downhill with great speed and technique. He knows how to fill lanes and make big-time tackles in space on all types of players. In coverage, Jones showcases great speed and technique. It felt rare to see a wideout beat Jones on a route. With his overall skill set, do not be surprised to see Jones make an immediate impact in his freshman year for USF.
• CJ Cresser, CB: Like Jones, CJ Cresser is a very good addition to the secondary for the Bulls. As a run defender, Cresser lays some physical hits on offensive players. In space, in the backfield, or in the box, the defensive back rarely misses his mark and finds a way to make big plays. In coverage, Cresser not only has speed, but also has very good technique. Additionally, he has shown some extremely dynamic return ability throughout his career. Like Jarvis Lee, Cresser can be a very versatile chess piece for the Bulls.

• Derrick Nichols III, CB: Another fun defensive back addition, Derrick Nichols can do everything at a high level. As a run defender, the American Heritage standout flies downhill and lays hits on ball carriers consistently. Up to this point in his season, Nichols has 30 tackles and three tackles for loss. In coverage, the defensive back has the speed and athleticism to make big plays on a consistent basis. On top of his two interceptions, Nichols has forced multiple incompletions with great closing speed and play strength. In a conference that can test defenses with speed and power, Nichols is a perfect addition for the USF defense.
• Dennis King III, LB: With some impressive linebackers on the way out, Dennis King III looks to be a great addition. Recording an absurd 108 tackles in his senior season, King plays the run with force and uses some impressive speed to make plays. He not only takes on blocks very well, but also has the speed to chase down ball carriers in space. Additionally, King brings nice ability as a blitzer and has some solid coverage ability, as he recorded two interceptions in his career. Providing all-around ability and upside, “Tank” could have a chance to live up to his nickname very early on in his college career.

Sleepers of the Class

• Demetrius Geathers Jr, EDGE: If Demetrius Geathers Jr. is going under your radar, change that, and fast. Not only is the West Boca product a great pass rusher, but he is also a key run defender for the Bulls. On a defense filled to the brim with FBS talent, Geathers continuously finds a way to stand out. He, for lack of a better term, just makes plays all over the field. With a very high floor already, it’ll be exciting to see how Geathers starts to hit his ceiling once he gets to Tampa. If he progresses, the edge rusher is going to make USF’s defense much better in the long term.

What to Watch for Next

USF still has one recruit committed for the 2026 class who has not signed in JUCO cornerback Tim Roberson. After the early signing window, all eyes will turn to the transfer portal period that will begin on January 2.

FIU Panthers

In the midst of a highly successful first college football season under head coach Willie Simmons, the FIU Panthers have built upon their progress with a very talented 2026 class. As of the writing of this piece, 22 players, both from the high school and JUCO ranks, have officially signed. Here are all of the new names arriving in the 305 for the upcoming season.

• Jaeden McMillan, S (Melbourne, FL)
• Dominic Turnbull, CB (Miami, FL)
• Jayden Ford, RB (Miami, FL)
• Malik Penson, WR (Miami, FL)
• Cason Dash, CB (Lakeland, FL)
• Ayden Passley, TE (Jupiter, FL)
• Barrett Schultz, WR (Lake Mary, FL)
• Michael Smarts, EDGE (Pembroke Pines, FL)
• Eric Johnson, S (Loganville, GA)
• DJ Alexander, QB (Douglasville, GA)
• Za’marion West, CB (Madison, FL)
• Justin Compere, RB (Opa Locka, FL)
• Riley Wilson, OT (Tampa, FL)
• Jahmani Chin-Suer, CB (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
• Jakari Johnson, S (Hollywood, FL)
• Noah Sidan, K (Hollywood, FL)
• De’Andre Arnold, LB (Madison, FL)
• Davis Brown, TE (Rolesville, NC) 
• James Resar, TE (Jacksonville, FL)
• Kiyante Ingram, S (Powder Springs, GA)
• Demitrius Mincey, LB (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
• Karaijus Hayes, DB (Sarasota, FL) 
• Barrett Maddox, OL (Clinton, TN)

Names to Know

This class is a very talented one, but there are a few names worth highlighting.

• Malik Penson, WR: One of the favorite wideouts to watch in this cycle, Malik Penson, in his only season at True North Classical Academy, had 754 yards on 44 catches and 11 touchdowns. He has great speed, route-running, and overall explosiveness. He can attack defenses downfield, in the intermediate area, or make big plays happen on short-yardage passes. Bringing a true deep-threat element to FIU, Penson could contribute early on for the Panthers.
• DJ Alexander, QB: The sole quarterback commit for the Panthers’ 2026 class, Alexander has the potential to be great in the 305. As a thrower, the Georgia native has smooth mechanics and footwork, no matter if he is in the pocket or on the move. Alexander can hit every throw on the field and shows the ability to put touch on his throws, especially deep down the field. As a runner, the quarterback moves with power and speed in the open field, while also showing a willingness to gain tough yardage.
• Justin Compere, RB: With Kejon Owens departing after the 2025 season, FIU needs a power presence in its backfield going forward. Sterling Joseph should play a huge role in filling that void, and the arrival of Justin Compere will help massively. The Opa Locka native runs with massive power in between the tackles, constantly putting his foot in the ground and getting upfield instantly. More impressive, though, is his speed. Compere has the ability to pull away from defenders and rip off chunk plays. Already the type of player who could play a key role early in his career, further development and growth from Compere should help him become a vital piece of the FIU offense.
• Eric Johnson, S: One of FIU’s defensive back additions, Eric Johnson already has the game of a high-level safety. As a run defender and tackler, the Grayson HS product attacks downhill with great technique and instincts. Johnson understands what he is seeing and makes big plays based on those reads. The same applies to his level of play in the passing game. Using his athleticism and speed, the safety consistently makes plays on the ball. Pending what happens in the portal, Johnson could make a similar impact on the defense as Shamir Sterlin did early on in his FIU career.
• Jakari Johnson, S: Against the run, on the blitz, in coverage, or even on special teams, Jakari Johnson just makes winning plays. In his senior season, Johnson showed off great skill, instincts, and overall production. He posted 10 tackles for loss, five interceptions, and three sacks for the McArthur Mustangs. Heading to FIU, Johnson looks to be a fun chess piece for the defensive coaching staff.
• Noah Sidan, K: Noah Sidan is going to be great for the Panthers. He has the big leg, the accuracy, and the drive to get better. He will be making big things happen on the field in short order for FIU.

Sleeper of the Class

• Jayden Ford, RB: He may not have the biggest stature, but Jayden Ford more than makes up for it. As a kick returner, punt returner, or running back, Ford has some of the best speed and explosiveness in the entire 2026 class. He can cut on a dime, find the smallest of spaces to exploit, and outrun players in a manner that few could ever dream of doing. Ford’s highlight tape is filled with jaw-dropping plays, and that is not doing it justice. Overlook him at your own risk.

What to Watch for Next

The Panthers still have two recruits that have yet to officially sign – offensive linemen Sean Kentish and Kaleb Barnes. After that, it is firmly time to look ahead to bowl season and the transfer portal.

FAU Owls

With their 2025 college football season in the books, all eyes for the FAU Owls have shifted to building out the roster for 2026. Along with some key transfer additions, the Owls signed a solid class of 12 players on the first day of the early signing window. Here are all of the names set to join FAU in Boca Raton for the 2026 season and beyond:

• Owen Pollock, TE (Sunbury, OH)
• Aedyn Buchanan, OT (Greensboro, NC)
• Travis Jackson, DB (Wellington, FL)
• Antojuan Woody, WR (Camp Hill, AL)
• Kam Herring, DB (Memphis, TN)
• Elijah West, WR (Pensacola, FL)
• Javery Mayberry, TE (Mesa, AZ)
• Roman Garcia, EDGE (Wagoner, OK)
• Jeremiah Dauod, QB (McKinney, Texas)
• Alejandro Schmitt, OT (Pembroke Pines, FL)
• Sean Williams, DB (Fairburn, GA)
• Nicsaint Joseph Jr., WR (Miami, FL)
• Owen Cheatham, OL (Durnago, CO) 
• Justin Weatherall, ATH (Pensacola, FL) 

Additionally, the Owls have added two standout transfers in running back Leonard Farrow and EDGE Kenyone Garner, bringing their class to 15 total players.

Names to Know

In this class, there are some names that FAU fans should get themselves familiar with very quickly.

• Sean Williams, DB: The first player to commit in the Zach Kittley era, Sean Williams is exactly the type of player that FAU needs in its secondary. The cornerback has great coverage skills, whether it comes to mirroring routes or making plays on the ball. He is also willing to put his body on the line as a tackler, showing great toughness.
• Elijah West, WR: A steal for the Owls, Elijah West has everything that makes up a potential elite wideout. He has great speed that goes with excellent route running. He is a complete contested-catch threat, while also having the ability to rip off big gains on short completions. In short, West gives Coach Kittley exactly the type of receiver that thrived in his offense this year – except that player is much bigger and faster than any of the ones used in 2025. Do not be surprised to see West make an immediate impact for the Owls in 2026.
• Jeremiah Daoud, QB: A player completely overlooked in this recruiting cycle, Daoud is an all-around quarterback with a high ceiling. He has good arm talent with great mechanics, good escapability, and very clean footwork. Daoud also already shows a willingness to get through his reads, something that is not common at the high school level, combined with great speed as a runner. Caden Veltkamp is not giving up the reins just yet, but with some time to develop in the scheme, Daoud could easily be the next man up in Boca Raton.

Sleeper of the Class

• Nicsaint Joseph Jr., WR: For some reason, the wider college football landscape is sleeping on Nicsaint Joseph Jr. Do not make that mistake. The Miami Northwestern product is a lethal route runner already. Joseph knows how to utilize leverage and make adjustments all over the field. He possesses the deep speed to make teams pay over the top. Even if he does not win clean, the wideout has the contested-catch skills to turn 50-50s into 60-40s. Additionally, Joseph is lethal with the ball in space, adding to an already great skillset. FAU’s wideout room seems crowded now, but that may not be the case in a few short weeks. If things break a certain way, Joseph could have a role of some kind in 2026 for the Owls.

What to Watch for Next

With players already hitting the transfer portal, FAU will look to retain its roster and load up on contributors for what needs to be an improved 2026 season.

College Football 2026 National Signing Day Storylines

Jared Curtis Flips to Vanderbilt

The biggest storyline of early National Signing Day was the flip of Jared Curtis from Georgia to Vanderbilt.

Not long ago, there was a reason that schools like Alabama and Georgia ruled the day. Thanks to their inherent advantages and “tactics,” the powerhouses never seemed to miss on the big players. Additionally, it felt like only a few schools in a few conferences ever had a shot to land the big fish.

Now, things have changed. Among all of the other craziness the NIL era has unleashed (a discussion for a different day), schools can now close the gaps that existed only a few years ago. Georgia still rules the day in many aspects of college football, but their path to the top is not as simple as it used to be. Schools like Alabama are no longer guaranteed top recruits. Rather, they have to commit the top-level investment that may not have been public in the older days.

Most importantly, a school like Vanderbilt can make its mark. Thanks to their investment, they make a real push at the No. 1 quarterback prospect in the country and manage to sign him away from the blue blood program of the past decade.

Point to Curtis as your example, or point to Keisan Henderson sticking with his hometown Houston Cougars. Players, and specifically quarterback, are going where they feel is the best fit, regardless of the standing of the program in the “old order” of things.

The current college football system is far from perfect. In fact, it is likely broken to a point where it needs a vast amount of repairs. It can harm players as much as it can help them. The same goes for coaches and even universities themselves. Yet without a true way to fix things, the wheels will keep on turning.