While everyone was caught up in debating Travis Hunter vs. Ashton Jeanty for the Heisman Trophy race this season, all indications for some time have been that the two-way star for the Colorado Buffaloes has been running away with the award (and deservedly so by my estimation). But as Hunter accepts college football’s most prestigious individual award on Saturday night, we obviously have to start thinking about next year — more pointedly, next season’s Heisman race.
Considering that we’re a full nine months and change away from the start of the 2025 season, there are some uncertainties when it comes to the 2025 Heisman Trophy race. We don’t know if the likes of potential NFL Draft entrants like Jalen Milroe, Carson Beck, Quinn Ewers and several more will elect to turn pro or return to school (perhaps another school in some cases) to try and improve their draft stock.
Jennings was remarkably good in his first year as the starter. Despite not having a full season as the starter, he still threw for 2,183 yards with 14 touchdowns, though that came with nine interceptions. He also added 255 rushing yards and five scores. As he’s now garnered valuable experience and SMU should only increase its talent level at the power conference level, Jennings is the dual-threat dark horse that could have some real legs next season, especially now that he’s undoubtedly the guy.
8. WR Ryan Williams, Alabama
As mentioned, one of the big questions regarding the 2025 Heisman Trophy race will be whether or not Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe returns for another year or not. My belief remains that he could benefit from another year of Kalen DeBoer’s tutelage to best maximize his NFL potential, but that’s far from a guarantee. Regardless of if it’s Milroe taking snaps or someone else, though, wide receiver Ryan Williams is going to be a major factor in the Heisman race.