ESPN Predicts 2026 Starting QBs Across ACC

Conference looks to build on Miami's CFP appearance with new crop of signal-callers

Jan. 27, 2026 at 2:31pm

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ESPN has released its predictions for the starting quarterbacks at all 16 ACC programs heading into the 2026 season. The conference is coming off a College Football Playoff appearance by the Miami Hurricanes, who fell just short in the national title game. Strong quarterback play was spread across the ACC in 2025, with names like Miami's Carson Beck, Duke's Darian Mensah, and Clemson's Cade Klubnik leading the way. This year will see many new faces under center, with transfers and young talents set to take the reins at schools like Boston College, Georgia Tech, and Virginia.

Why it matters

Quarterback play is crucial to a team's success in college football, and the ACC has seen its share of standout signal-callers in recent years. With several high-profile transfers and emerging young talents set to lead ACC offenses in 2026, the conference has a chance to build on its recent CFP appearance and cement itself as one of the nation's top quarterback-producing leagues.

The details

ESPN's predictions include Boston College landing Saginaw Valley State transfer Mason McKenzie, California welcoming back Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele after a strong freshman campaign, and Clemson handing the reins to Christopher Vizzina after three seasons behind Cade Klubnik. Duke is in the midst of a quarterback competition, with San Jose State transfer Walker Eget joining redshirt freshman Dan Mahan. Florida State landed Auburn's Ashton Daniels for his final season, while Georgia Tech brought in Indiana's Alberto Mendoza to replace the departed Haynes King.

  • The 2026 college football season kicks off in August.

The players

Carson Beck

The starting quarterback for the Miami Hurricanes, who reached the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in 2025.

Darian Mensah

The Duke Blue Devils' starting quarterback in 2025, who led the team to the ACC Championship Game and is expected to transfer to Miami for his final season.

Cade Klubnik

The Clemson Tigers' starting quarterback, who is departing after the 2025 season.

Haynes King

The former Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets quarterback, who was a dynamic dual-threat player.

Chandler Morris

The Virginia Cavaliers' starting quarterback in 2025, who led the team to the ACC Championship Game.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The ACC is poised for another strong season of quarterback play in 2026, with a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers set to lead their teams. While Miami's run to the national title game was a high point, the conference as a whole will look to build on that momentum and solidify its status as one of the premier quarterback-producing leagues in college football.