3 Potential Impact Freshman for Mizzou in 2026: The Buzz

The Missouri Tigers brought in the No. 31 recruiting class during the 2026 cycle, headlined by six four-star signees.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Missouri Tigers football team brought in a highly-ranked recruiting class for the 2026 season, and three of their four-star freshmen could make an immediate impact next year despite roster uncertainty around the team.

Why it matters

With multiple key players departing via the transfer portal, Missouri is looking to its talented freshman class to help fill some of those roster holes and contribute right away. These three players in particular could see significant playing time as true freshmen.

The details

Four-star offensive tackle Johnnie Jones, four-star wide receiver Jabari Brady, and four-star cornerback Jaxson Gates are three freshmen who could make an impact for Missouri in 2026. Jones may have a chance to start on the offensive line with uncertainty there, while Brady and Gates could see the field in skill position groups that also have some openings.

  • The Missouri Tigers brought in the No. 31 recruiting class during the 2026 cycle.
  • Missouri kicks off the 2026 season on February 13 against Mount St. Mary's.

The players

Johnnie Jones

A four-star offensive tackle in Missouri's 2026 recruiting class.

Jabari Brady

A four-star wide receiver in Missouri's 2026 recruiting class from Pompano Beach, Florida.

Jaxson Gates

A four-star cornerback in Missouri's 2026 recruiting class.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“People don't think [Blaine Gabbert] can go vertical, but if you study his whole body of work, you see he can go downfield.”

— Unnamed scout (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

Missouri kicks off the 2026 season on February 13 against Mount St. Mary's.

The takeaway

Missouri is looking to its highly-ranked 2026 recruiting class, including three four-star freshmen, to help fill roster holes and contribute right away as the Tigers aim to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.