The Big 12 quarterback scene is in flux, with the Brendan Sorsby saga shaking things up. Sorsby's gambling addiction has left his eligibility in question, and the NCAA has denied Texas Tech's request to reinstate him for the 2026 season. This has created a fluid situation for the Red Raiders, who were expected to be a top contender. With Sorsby's future uncertain, the focus shifts to other quarterbacks in the conference.
Devon Dampier, Utah
Devon Dampier is a dual-threat quarterback who earned Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year honors last season. He has a new offensive coordinator and a new offensive line, but his electric playmaking abilities and game-changing potential make him a strong contender.Noah Fifita, Arizona
Noah Fifita earned All-Big 12 first-team honors and led the league in passing yards and touchdowns. His junior campaign was resurgent, and he added a running element to his arsenal. With 34 career starts, Fifita is a seasoned veteran who can make Arizona a contender.Drew Mestemaker, Oklahoma State
Drew Mestemaker earned the No. 3 spot after leading North Texas in passing yards and earning American Conference Offensive Player of the Year honors. Jumping to the power conference level will be a challenge, but he has intriguing offensive weapons at his disposal.Bear Bachmeier, BYU
Bear Bachmeier won the starting job last season and earned Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors. With high expectations this season, Bachmeier showed moxie and the ability to lead BYU to the conference title game.Conner Weigman, Houston
Conner Weigman had a breakout season as a redshirt junior, leading Houston to 10 wins. His high QB efficiency rating and the potential addition of a five-star freshman make him a strong contender.Avery Johnson, Kansas State
Avery Johnson is heading into his third season as Kansas State's starting quarterback. With a new coach and extensive experience as a quarterbacks coach, Klein could help Johnson cap his career with his best season yet.DJ Lagway, Baylor
DJ Lagway comes to Baylor as a junior looking for a fresh start after a challenging season at Florida. With high-end potential and favorable measurables, he has the opportunity to shine.Jaden Craig, TCU
Jaden Craig is a veteran who started 24 games over the past three years. His ball security acumen and fit in coach Sonny Dykes' offense make him a strong contender.Cutter Boley, Arizona State
Cutter Boley is an intriguing option for Arizona State after starting 10 games for Kentucky. He'll need to cut down on turnovers, but his size and potential make him a contender.Alonza Barnett III, UCF
Alonza Barnett III showed electric playmaking abilities at James Madison and has 27 career starts. He'll have to fend off competition from Keyone Jenkins, but his upside makes him a strong contender.Julian Lewis, Colorado
Julian Lewis was primarily a backup last season but earned some playing time. As a five-star recruit, he will need to show greater development and take the reins of the Colorado offense.Will Hammond, Lloyd Jones Jr., or Kirk Francis, Texas Tech
With Sorsby's future uncertain, Texas Tech's QB situation is fluid. Hammond, Jones, and Francis will need to step up early in the season, and the right circumstances could make Texas Tech's QB situation among the best in the Big 12.Jaylen Raynor, Iowa State
Jaylen Raynor was the starter at Arkansas State for three seasons and can help fill the experience gap at Iowa State. With a strong passing and rushing record, he looks like the favorite to lead the Cyclones.JC French IV, Cincinnati
JC French IV comes to Cincinnati with 26 career starts and nearly 6,000 passing yards. The Bearcats also brought in Liam O'Brien, who has 10 career starts, providing depth and competition.Michael Hawkins Jr. or Scotty Fox Jr., West Virginia
West Virginia's quarterback situation is intriguing with Fox and Hawkins. Fox led West Virginia to wins over Houston and Colorado, while Hawkins' athleticism is reminiscent of Pat White. The competition will be fierce.Isaiah Marshall or Cole Ballard, Kansas
Kansas is likely to go with an internal candidate to take over after Jalon Daniels' departure. Ballard and Marshall have seen spot duty, and the addition of Chase Jenkins adds depth to the situation.
