In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, the 2026 season promises to be a thrilling affair, especially for fans of the Big 12. With a significant turnover in starting quarterbacks across the conference, the stage is set for some exciting developments and unexpected contenders. Among the myriad of talent, BYU's Bear Bachmeier stands out as a beacon of consistency and potential. But where does he fit into the grand scheme of things? This article delves into the rankings of the Big 12 quarterbacks, offering a critical analysis and a unique perspective on each player's prospects.
The Big 12 QB Landscape
The 2026 season brings a fresh wave of talent and uncertainty to the Big 12 quarterback position. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the conference is poised for an exciting battle under center. Here's a deep dive into the rankings, with a focus on Bear Bachmeier's potential standing.
16. Julian Lewis, Colorado
Lewis is a mystery, at least for now. With just 589 passing yards and four touchdowns in his college career, he's the least known quantity among Big 12 quarterbacks. His -35 rushing yards, largely due to sacks, don't help his case. The fact that he hasn't won a game as a starter in three attempts in Boulder adds to the intrigue. Lewis is the wild card, and his future in the conference remains to be seen.
15. Michael Hawkins Jr., West Virginia
Another newcomer, Hawkins Jr., spent two seasons at Oklahoma before heading to Morgantown. He showed promise with two 60-plus rushing yard games in 2024, but his overall body of work is still limited. With less than half a season's worth of starts, he's a work in progress. Hawkins Jr.'s potential is clear, but he needs time to develop and prove himself against the conference's best.
14. Cutter Boley, Arizona State
Boley brings experience to the table, having started for Kentucky before moving to Tempe. He had moderate success, beating teams like Auburn and Florida. However, his Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 59.4 is a cause for concern. The Sun Devils are in a new era after Sam Leavitt's departure, and Boley must step up to fill the void. His ability to lead a team in a new era is a testament to his potential.
13. Chase Jenkins, Kansas
Kansas is in a transition phase, and Jenkins is the odds-on favorite to start. He's athletic and versatile, having played receiver at Rice. The question mark is his health, as he needs to stay injury-free to prove himself. Jenkins' ability to create havoc with his legs could be a game-changer for the Jayhawks.
12. JC French IV, Cincinnati
French IV is a rising star, coming to the Bearcats after a successful run at Georgia Southern. He's on a trajectory to improve, with 815 passing attempts and success at the Group of 6 level. His back-to-back 2,800-plus passing yard seasons make him a force to be reckoned with. French IV's potential is undeniable, and he's set to make a name for himself in the Big 12.
11. Jaden Craig, TCU
Craig's production at Harvard is impressive, with over 6,000 passing yards and 52 touchdowns. However, his lack of FBS-level experience and rushing ability hold him back. TCU's system suits him well, and his smart play and good size make him a contender. Craig's future is bright, but he needs to prove himself against the conference's elite.
10. DJ Lagway, Baylor
Lagway is a natural talent, ranked No. 1 QB recruit in 2024. However, inconsistency and poor coaching have hindered his development. He led the SEC with 14 interceptions in 2025 and hasn't lived up to the rushing threat expectations. A fresh start at Baylor could be transformative, but it's a tall order for his third season as a starter.
9. Alonza Barnett III, UCF
Barnett III is a proven commodity, coming off a successful run at James Madison. He helped the Dukes reach the College Football Playoff and played well against national title contenders. His performance in the Las Vegas Bowl, with 273 passing yards, two touchdowns, 45 rushing yards, and a score, showcases his versatility. UCF gains a leader who has already faced adversity and thrived.
8. Jalen Raynor, Iowa State
Raynor is a solid starter with three seasons of experience and back-to-back bowl wins. His performance against the Cyclones, with 222 passing yards and 83 rushing yards, is a testament to his ability. While he might not have the highest ceiling, his floor is high, and he's a reliable option for the Cyclones.
7. Conner Weigman, Houston
Weigman's dynamic playmaking abilities are evident, with 2,705 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, 700 rushing yards, and 11 rushing scores in 2025. Houston's success in 2025, winning 10 games with him under center, is a strong indicator of his leadership and talent. He's a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12.
6. Avery Johnson, Kansas State
Johnson's 2025 season was a disappointment, but he's a pure athlete with over 1,000 rushing yards in the last two seasons. His PFF grade of 7th among projected Big 12 quarterbacks is a testament to his talent. Kansas State's 2026 season hinges on reclaiming the glory days, and Johnson is a key part of that equation.
5. Drew Mestemaker, Oklahoma State
Mestemaker's meteoric rise is evident, with a whopping 4,379 passing yards and 34 touchdowns in 2025. His success at North Texas translates well to Stillwater, and he's a potential game-changer. Oklahoma State gains a quarterback with a bright future, and his impact could be immediate.
4. Devon Dampier, Utah
Dampier is a pure athlete, and his performance against BYU's defense in 2025 showcased his versatility. His ability to throw and run makes him a complete quarterback. With 822 passing yards, 292 rushing yards, and 12 touchdowns in his last three games, he's a force to be reckoned with. Dampier's potential is limitless.
3. Bear Bachmeier, BYU
Bachmeier's leadership and poise are remarkable for a teenager and true freshman. His ability to avoid turnovers and lead BYU to 12 wins is a testament to his talent. With a fresh start and a new group of pass-catchers, Bachmeier is poised for a breakout season. His age, leadership, and untapped potential make him a top contender.
2. Brendan Sorsby, Texas Tech
Sorsby's performance against BYU, with 300 passing yards and two touchdowns, is a strong indicator of his talent. His PFF grade of 27 touchdowns to five interceptions is elite. Texas Tech gains a quarterback with a bright future, and his impact could be immediate.
1. Noah Fifita, Arizona
Fifita is the epitome of a battle-tested and experienced quarterback. With the most career passing yards and three consecutive 2,800-yard seasons, he's a legend in Tucson. His ability to lead Arizona to success and break records makes him the clear-cut leader. Fifita's future in the NFL is uncertain, but his impact in the Big 12 is undeniable.
