Written by Eric Martinez -The 2026 college football season features experienced seniors ready to make their final year memorable. Across FBS and FCS, these athletes have worked hard, gained valuable experience, and shown their elite capabilities. As the season begins, they aim to finish strong and leave a lasting impact. Here are five seniors to watch this season.

- Elijah Taylor, a graduate wide receiver for the University of San Diego Toreros, Elijah has high expectations coming in as a veteran contributor. His experience adds maturity to the receiving corps, which seeks targets and playing time. At 6'0" and 175 pounds, Taylor is well-suited to play both in the slot and outside. Taylor played 4 years at Northern Arizona University.

In 2026, Taylor aims to translate his experience into impactful plays. With another year in the Toreros' system, he can become a reliable target during crucial moments. Taylor spent the offseason training with legendary skills and speed coach DeQuinton Taylor where he participated in multiple development workouts including catching for NFL quarterback, Spencer Rattler where Elijah is an ACE Athlete (ACE Athletes program) that trains in Phoenix, AZ. 

- Micah Harper, DB, A seasoned defender joining a promising Big 12 contender, Micah adds invaluable experience to the Cyclones. The redshirt senior safety solidifies the defense in Ames after starting at Montana, bringing valuable experience to a Cyclone secondary in need of consistency and leadership.  Originally from Chandler, Arizona, Harper is 5-foot-10 and 189 pounds, where his experience is vital for the revamped defense. Head coach Jimmy Rogers has highlighted Harper's development and understanding of the system during camp, noting that competition at the safety position gives him a chance to become a crucial defensive asset.  For a senior with FCS and FBS experience, 2026 offers Harper the opportunity for a standout final season. Consistent performance and veteran guidance in the secondary could make him a significant name in the Cyclones' defense.  Harper is also an ACE Athlete (ACE Athletes program) that trains in Phoenix, AZ in the offseason.

- BJ Fleming Jr., WR, enters the 2026 season as a standout addition to the Tarleton State receiving corps. Returning home to Texas, he comes off a successful season at North Dakota, where he emerged as a top FCS receiver. In 2025, Fleming led North Dakota with 48 receptions for 817 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging nearly 17 yards per catch. He had three games over 100 yards, including a 138-yard performance against No. 5 Montana. His 89-yard touchdown against South Dakota State set a school record. As a fifth-year senior at Tarleton State, Fleming brings not just impressive stats but invaluable experience from competitive FCS conferences, having spent three seasons at Northern Arizona. Last season, he earned Second Team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honors. Fleming's arrival in Stephenville offers a chance to make a significant impact for the Texans. With various offensive threats on the team, his explosive playmaking ability will draw defensive attention. Fleming joined Taylor in Arizona training with skills and speed trainer, DeQuinton Taylor, and is an ACE Athlete (ACE Athletes program) in the offseason. Fleming caught passes from NFL quarterback, Spencer Rattler in the offseason program as well. 

- Rodney Bullard Jr., WR, a 5-foot-11, 188-pound senior wide receiver from Albany, Georgia, is one of Michigan State's intriguing veterans heading into the 2026 season. Before joining Michigan State, he played at Valdosta State, where he recorded 91 receptions for 1,686 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2023 and 2024, marking him as a seasoned FCS-to-FBS player.  In 2025, Bullard showed potential with limited play, accumulating 131 snaps and five catches for 119 yards, including a 102-yard touchdown against Minnesota including a 71-yard touchdown for Michigan State. Although Bullard is not a transferring Senior and will be returning to East Lansing, we have included him on our list, as his FCS experience has enhanced his performance, making him a key target for the Spartans.  Bullard is an ACE Athlete that trained in Arizona with legendary skills and speed trainer, DeQuinton Taylor in the offseason workout program in Phoenix. 

- Kaden Kern, DB, returns for the 2026 season as a key player in the Lake Forest College secondary. The junior from Gilbert, Arizona, follows a standout 2025 season, earning Second Team All-Midwest Conference honors.  In 2025, Kern recorded 41 tackles, two interceptions, and seven pass breakups, leading in the latter two categories and ranking fourth in total tackles. His seven pass breakups tied for the conference lead. Notable performances included 10 tackles and an interception against Monmouth College, along with a 57-yard interception return for a touchdown at Knox College.  Academically, Kern earned 2025 CSC Academic All-District honors, building on his 2024 Academic All-MWC accolades. At 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds, he is set to be a pivotal player for the Foresters. Kern may not yet be a Senior, but after an impressive performance this season, keep his name in mind for next year when he transitions into his Senior role, as numerous prominent FCS and FBS programs may seek to recruit an experienced defensive back. Additionally, Kern is recognized as an ACE Athlete and has trained with renowned speed and skill trainer DeQuinton Taylor.