Heisman finalists announcement reveals needed change to selection process

Some outstanding players were left disappointed following the 2025 Heisman Trophy finalists reveal, but maybe they wouldn't be if the Heisman Trust made a sensible change.

On Monday, Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love, Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia and Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin were named this year's finalists. The announcement left others, perhaps most notably Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Marcel Reed and Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, without an invite.

2025 season shows why Heisman should make simple rule change

With more deserving candidates than finalist spots, the Heisman Trust should go back to a more flexible process when naming candidates. Since 2021, a strict limit of four players per season has been invited to New York, whereas the number of nominees fluctuated previously, with as many as six players (2013) and as few as three (2018) named finalists in recent years.

That would be a logical change to ensure that all deserving players receive the prominent recognition. The four candidates headed to New York for Saturday's Heisman ceremony earned that right, but they aren't the only players who should be on a flight to the Big Apple this weekend. Others are equally deserving. 

Reed accounted for 3,398 yards and was the only underclassman with at least 25 passing touchdowns and five rushing touchdowns this season. Rodriguez, meanwhile, led FBS with seven forced fumbles and also had four interceptions, 11 tackles for loss and three touchdowns, including two rushing.

There's no good justification for putting a cap on the number of Heisman finalists. The players should determine that on the field.