A very strong 2025 at Pittsburgh (101 tackles, 17 tackles for loss) paints Biles as one of the most impactful transfers in the Power Four. Hardy led the defending champions in tackles (102) and sacks (eight) while adding 15 tackles for loss. Brown (106 tackles) is the centerpiece of a Clemson defense that might be the best in the ACC.
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CB: Leonard Moore, Notre Dame*
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CB: Brandon Finney, Oregon
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S: KJ Bolden, Georgia
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S: Bray Hubbard, Alabama
Moore is rarely tested by opposing quarterbacks but still manages to make plays (five interceptions, one returned for a score in 2025) as the nation’s best defensive back. Finney came up big with two interceptions in last year’s Orange Bowl win against Texas Tech. It’s easy to slot Bolden (76 tackles, two interceptions in 2025) among the run of elite safeties under Kirby Smart at Georgia. Hubbard has posted seven interceptions since stepping into Alabama’s lineup in 2024.
First-team specialists
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K: Tate Sandell, Oklahoma
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P: Evan Crenshaw, Troy
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RET: Da’Realyst Clark, Kent State
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AP: Wayne Knight, UCLA
Sandell was terrific in 2025 (24 of 27 field goals) and at his best from long distance, making eight of his nine attempts from 50-plus yards. Averaging 45.7 yards per punt last season made Crenshaw the first Troy player since the program joined the FBS to earn All-America honors from multiple selectors in the same season. Clark averaged 28.3 yards per kickoff return with two scores in 2025. Knight followed new UCLA coach Bob Chesney from James Madison, where he ran for 1,373 yards and had 397 receiving yards in last year’s playoff push.
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