Breakout True Freshman in Big Ten for 2026

Originally posted on Mike Farrell Sports | By JC Nevils | Last updated Feb 21, 2026 11:25 AM ET

Now more than ever, the best college football players have been true freshman. You can just look at what Miami’s Malachi Toney did this past season. They come in more physically ready than they have ever been, mentally as well. We already took a look at the SEC, so now let’s take a look at some of the Big Ten’s new potential playmakers.

Edge Zion Elee, Maryland

The Baltimore All-Metro Player of the Year has been a menace for offenses his entire career so far. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds he isn’t the biggest as of yet, but he makes up for it with his exceptional speed off the edge.

He plays with a tenacious attitude and motor that cannot be taught. He will be a household name by the end of the season for the Terps if he stays healthy.

CB Danny Odem, Nebraska

Ranked as the second-best cornerback prospect in his class, the Florida native chose to take his talents up north to Nebraska. He will make an instant impact not only because of his prototypical size, but his ball skills are second to none as well.

He high points it with the best, while having the speed to keep up with any receiver. A major coup for the Cornhuskers.

RB Savion Hiter, Michigan

Arguably the best running back prospect in the nation, Hiter has the whole package. He has an uncanny ability to make you miss along with breakaway speed to take it to the house.

He is tough as well making defenders bounce right off of him. Michigan is well known for running the ball more than most, so expect to see him early and often.

WR Chris Henry Jr., Ohio State

If you have seen his dad, the late Chris Henry Sr., play at all, he is a spitting image of him. Both long and lanky with the ability to take the top off of the defense at any moment.

His catch radius and athleticism makes 50-50 balls turn into 80-20. With some talent transferring out along with others headed to the NFL draft, I see him starting day one.

TE Kendre Harrison, Oregon

If there were a player made in a lab, it would most certainly look like Harrison. The super athlete not only stars on the football field, but on the basketball court as well. He intends on playing both at the next level as well.

He reminds me of Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington back when he was at Georgia. A pure freak on the field. With Kenyon Sadiq headed to the NFL, he can step in and make an instant impact for the Ducks.

This article first appeared on Mike Farrell Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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