Texas Tech University Athletics
Six Red Raiders appear in On3’s top-100 player rankings
May 21, 2026 | Football
A.J. Holmes Jr. was the highest-ranked interior defensive lineman on On3’s rankings at No. 14 overall
LUBBOCK, Texas – With the college football season approaching 100 days away, On3.com released its top-100 player rankings entering the 2026 season Thursday, which included six Red Raiders.
Texas Tech's six selections were split between the two sides of the ball with A.J. Holmes Jr. leading the way at No. 14, making him the highest interior defensive lineman in the rankings. He was joined by cornerback Brice Pollock at No. 35 and linebacker Austin Romaine, the lone newcomer of Texas Tech's six honorees, at No. 98 overall.
The Red Raiders' progress up front was noticed with two offensive linemen listed in returning left tackle Howard Sampson at No. 48 followed by captain and starting center Sheridan Wilson at No. 79 overall. Terrance Carter Jr. was one of only three tight ends appearing in the rankings, coming in at No. 61 overall. Carter will likely be a preseason Mackey Award favorite after catching 52 passes for 602 yards and five touchdowns a year ago.
Oregon and reigning national champion Indiana led the FBS with eight total top-100 selections followed by the Red Raiders, Georgia and Texas with six each. Texas Tech was one of four Big 12 schools with a player represented as both BYU and Oklahoma State garnered two selections, while Houston had one.
Speaking of rankings, ESPN.com listed the Big 12 Conference opener versus Houston in its 10 must-see games for the 2026 season. The article, which highlighted ESPN's top storylines, games and predictions for the 2026 season, also included a listing of the top transfers to watch, namely in Texas Tech outside linebacker Adam Trick at No. 10 overall. Trick arrived at Texas Tech this offseason after recording 8.5 sacks at Miami (Ohio) a year ago, while leading all FBS pass rushers with 73 pressures, according to ESPN research.
The college football season officially kicks off Aug. 29 with Week Zero. The Red Raiders open their season a week later, hosting Abilene Christian on Sept. 5 inside Jones AT&T Stadium.
