Top 5 Vanderbilt Football Players to Watch in 2026

As Vanderbilt prepares for the 2026 college football season under head coach Clark Lea, the Commodores are shaping up with a blend of returning contributors, emerging stars, and intriguing newcomers that fans and SEC observers should keep an eye on. Coming off a 10-3 campaign in 2025 that saw Vanderbilt compete at a high level in the toughest conference in college football, several players are positioned to make significant impacts in 2026. This look at the top five players to watch is based on reported roster confirmations, transfer news, and performance history from 2025 that could carry into the upcoming season.

Diego Pavia – Quarterback and Offensive Catalyst

Vanderbilt’s signal-caller remains the centerpiece of the Commodores’ offense heading into 2026. Diego Pavia, a graduate quarterback, showcased elite production during the 2025 season, leading Vanderbilt with over 3,500 passing yards and accounting for nearly 30 passing touchdowns while adding significant rushing yardage. His performance earned national recognition, finishing as a Heisman Trophy runner-up and cementing himself as one of the SEC’s most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks. Pavia’s leadership and playmaking ability make him the most critical player to watch; if he builds on his established chemistry with Vanderbilt’s offensive weapons and remains healthy throughout the season, he could again elevate the Commodores’ offensive output.

Sedrick Alexander – Lead Back in the Vanderbilt Ground Game

Running back Sedrick Alexander is expected to anchor Vanderbilt’s rushing attack for 2026 after confirming his return to the team for the upcoming season. Alexander proved his value in the 2025 campaign, scoring consistently and pacing the Commodores with multiple rushing touchdowns. His ability to contribute in both the rushing and passing games gives Vanderbilt a versatile offensive option that can help control tempo and open up the field for other playmakers. With his experienced presence in the backfield, Alexander should be a focal point of Vanderbilt’s offensive strategy in 2026.

Makhilyn “MK” Young – Dynamic Backfield Complement

Joining Alexander in the backfield is Makhilyn “MK” Young, another key running back who returns for the 2026 season. Young’s versatility—as both a runner and pass-catch option—adds a dynamic element to Vanderbilt’s offense that keeps defenses honest. Paired with Alexander, the duo gives Vanderbilt a strong one-two punch capable of sustaining drives and creating explosive plays. In a league that values offensive balance, Young’s continued development will be instrumental in Vanderbilt’s hopes for a successful 2026.

Cole Spence – Tight End Ready for Expanded Role

Tight end Cole Spence confirmed that he intends to return for the 2026 season, giving Vanderbilt a reliable target in the red zone and an experienced blocker in the run game. In 2025 Spence made notable contributions with over a dozen receptions and multiple scores, often providing key first-down conversions and clutch performances. With the departure of other veteran pass catchers, Spence is positioned to take on an expanded role within the offense, offering Pavia a trusted option in tight spaces and crucial third-down situations.

Emerging Talent and Transfer Additions

Looking beyond established returners, Vanderbilt’s 2026 roster and transfer portal activity suggest that new contributors will impact the Commodores’ fortunes. Vanderbilt entered the transfer portal season actively, bringing in several players from Power Four programs that could compete for playing time and add depth to key positions. Combined with Vanderbilt’s 2026 recruiting class and projected starters on both sides of the ball, this infusion of talent points to a deeper and more competitive roster. While it remains to be seen which of these emerging names will break out first, they represent a group worth watching as the season progresses.

Conclusion

The 2026 Vanderbilt football season promises an exciting blend of proven playmakers and rising talent. Anchored by star quarterback Diego Pavia, supported by a capable and dynamic backfield in Sedrick Alexander and Makhilyn Young, and fortified with established contributors like Cole Spence, the Commodores appear poised to compete in the formidable Southeastern Conference once again. As fans and analysts look ahead, these five players—along with emerging contributors from the transfer portal and recruiting class—are set to define Vanderbilt’s identity on the field and shape the Commodores’ success in 2026. antagonists and opportunities alike, this group of players represents both the skill and depth that could elevate Vanderbilt football in the coming season.