Several Players Named to Comeback Player Watch List

Several college players are being recognized for comeback potential as the 2026 season approaches. Spurlin, a Georgia transfer tight end now at Colorado State, was named to the Comeback Player of the Year watch list after congenital heart issues derailed his career and aortic valve surgery is expected to let him return. Florida defensive end LJ McCray, who missed most of 2025 due to a broken foot after a knee injury, has been added to the Comeback Player of the Year watch list and is viewed as a key redshirt sophomore hoping to translate offseason gains into production. West Virginia wide receiver Jaden Bray, rehabbing from injuries across two seasons, earned a spot on the Comeback Player of the Year preseason watch list and remains a top-eligibility target for the Mountaineers in 2026. Nevada defensive end Dylan LaBarbera was put on the Chuck Bednarik Award preseason watch list after recording 17 TFLs and 6.5 sacks in 2025, highlighting a strong defensive season and potential for more in 2026. Florida’s LJ McCray is also highlighted on the season’s preseason notes for multiple awards, underscoring heightened expectations for his 2026 breakout potential.