The 2025 Heisman Trophy race could give us a glimpse of the next generation of college football superstars. After Travis Hunter took home the 2024 Heisman as Colorado’s electric two-way star, fans are now looking ahead to the next wave of elite talent.
Even though the new season hasn’t kicked off yet, and predicting the Heisman winner this early might seem premature, that won’t stop us from taking a look. The race is wide open, and several rising stars have the talent and spotlight to chase down college football’s most prestigious award.
Top 5 Way-Too-Early 2025 Heisman Trophy Candidates
QB Arch Manning, Texas Longhorns
Arch Manning is finally stepping into the spotlight as Texas’s starting quarterback. After waiting behind Quinn Ewers, it’s now his time to shine. With a strong arm, poise, and natural leadership, Manning is already being mentioned as a possible No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Right now, Texas enters the season ranked No. 2 in the nation, and Manning sits near the top of early Heisman odds at +600. We don’t deny that the pressure is so real, but he also has the highest potential among all contenders. If Manning lives up to the hype, Texas could be looking at a championship run.
QB Garrett Nussmeier, LSU Tigers
Garrett Nussmeier is ready to lead LSU after a breakout 2024 season. He passed for over 4,000 yards and threw 29 touchdowns, proving he can handle pressure with confidence. With LSU aiming for a return to the College Football Playoff, Nussmeier’s steady hand and big-play ability could be the key to their success.
He’s seen as a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft and currently holds +850 Heisman odds. If he keeps this momentum going, he could climb to the top of the Heisman Trophy race.
QB Cade Klubnik, Clemson Tigers
Cade Klubnik has transformed Clemson’s offense, bouncing back from a challenging 2023 season to become one of the nation’s top quarterbacks. Last year, he threw for 3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns, and six interceptions, while adding seven rushing scores.
His ability to make plays under pressure has earned him Heisman buzz, and some analysts believe he could be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. With +1100 odds, he is firmly in the Heisman conversation. If Clemson returns to national title contention, Klubnik will be one of the strongest candidates for the Heisman Trophy finalist list.
WR Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State Buckeyes
Jeremiah Smith had a historic freshman season at Ohio State, breaking records and proving he’s one of the best receivers in college football. He finished with 76 catches, 1,315 yards, and 15 touchdowns, earning Big Ten WR of the Year honors.
With Emeka Egbuka heading to the NFL, Smith is now the unquestioned No. 1 target for the Buckeyes. At +1000, he’s the highest-ranked non-quarterback in the Heisman race—and he has the skills to make serious noise in 2025.
WR Ryan Williams, Alabama Crimson Tide
Ryan Williams is Alabama’s next big star at wide receiver. As a freshman, he showed flashes of greatness with 48 catches, 865 yards, and eight touchdowns. With new head coach Kalen DeBoer shaping the offense, Williams is expected to be a go-to playmaker.
RELATED: Top 5 Heisman Favorites in the SEC, According to DraftKings
CFB analysts are considering Ryan Williams a future first-round pick, with his talent already turning heads. He enters the Heisman race as a dark horse, holding +3500 odds. If Alabama’s passing attack takes off, Williams could quickly rise into the national spotlight and become one of the biggest breakout stars of the season.
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