Big 12 Quarterbacks Dominate EA’s Top 20 List in CFB26

The Big 12’s strength at quarterback continues to stand out, both on the field and now in the digital arena.

EA Sports just released its Top 20 quarterback ratings for College Football 26, and five of those spots belong to Big 12 passers. With elite production, explosive playmakers, and rising stars across the league, the conference’s quarterback depth is drawing national attention.

Five conference signal callers earned recognition on the list:

• Sam Leavitt (Arizona State) checks in at No. 4 on the list with a 91 overall rating. Leavitt guided ASU to a Big 12 title and a CFP berth last season.
• Avery Johnson (Kansas State) earns No. 11 with an 89 rating, highlighting his dual-threat ability and leadership in leading the Wildcats to nine wins in his first year as a starter.
• Kaidon Salter (Colorado) lands at No. 15, rated 88 overall, recognized for his dynamic play at Liberty and upcoming debut in the Big 12.
• Rocco Becht (Iowa State) ranks No. 18 with an 88 rating, a nod to his consistency and strong production last fall.
• Sawyer Robertson (Baylor) holds No. 20, matching Becht at 88 overall, after a breakout campaign that put the Bears back on the map.

In a top-20 loaded with powerhouse quarterbacks from across the country, the Big 12’s five entries validate the conference’s elite talent at the position. Leavitt’s high placement reflects his impact on ASU’s run to the playoff, while Johnson’s ranking recognises his dual-threat prowess.

Salter’s entry is impressive for a player still awaiting his first Big 12 snaps, showing the weight of his Liberty legacy. Becht and Robertson close the group out, notable for their leadership and production.

The Big 12 nearly placed six quarterbacks in EA Sports’ Top 20, but BYU’s Jake Retzlaff narrowly missed inclusion after recently entering the transfer portal. Retzlaff had been a projected candidate for the list before his late departure from the Cougars, which removes him from the Big 12 mix and leaves his future landing spot still undecided.

EA’s ratings combine past on-field performance, team success, and perceived upside in modes like Dynasty or Road to Glory. Big 12 fans can take pride in the representation, with their signal-callers forming a solid core in the virtual quarterback landscape.

As College Football 26 approaches its July release, these ratings offer an initial glimpse at perceived depth and strength in the Big 12’s QB room. Rivalries will be played out not just on Saturdays, but also on consoles, where these five quarterbacks will be among the most used in the game.