Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has ascended to the top of Robert Griffin III's Heisman Trophy front-runners list. Smith's stellar performance, particularly his record-breaking efforts against Iowa, has placed him ahead of previous leader Kamario Taylor of Mississippi State.

Smith is now closely trailed by Miami quarterback Darian Mensah and Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell. Mensah has maintained a dominant season, contributing to a significant win over Clemson, while Russell has been instrumental in Alabama's victories, including their win against Mississippi State.

Robert Griffin III's top five Heisman Trophy candidates entering Week 6 of the 2026 college football season are as follows:

  1. Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State: Griffin highlighted Smith's exceptional play, noting his recent 11-catch, 206-yard, two-touchdown performance against Iowa. Smith has set new Ohio State career records for receptions, receiving touchdowns, and yards, accumulating 3,381 career yards. This marks his second consecutive game with over 200 receiving yards. Smith is attempting to become the first wide receiver to win the Heisman since Devonta Smith of Alabama.

  2. Darian Mensah, QB, Miami (FL): Griffin described Mensah as playing "out of his mind" and a potential top quarterback prospect in the upcoming draft. Mensah is currently leading the FBS in completion percentage with 84.2%. Darian Mensah leads the FBS in completion percentage with 84.2%. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images)

  3. Keelon Russell, QB, Alabama: Griffin noted Russell's consistent improvement and confident play, which has made Alabama a formidable team. Russell accounted for four total touchdowns in Alabama's 56-23 victory over Mississippi State. Keelon Russell accounted for four total touchdowns in Alabama's 56-23 win over Mississippi State on Saturday. (Photo by Jason Clark/Getty Images)

  4. Kamario Taylor, QB, Mississippi State: Despite Mississippi State's recent loss to Alabama, Taylor remains on Griffin's list. Griffin acknowledged that Taylor was not at full health during the game but emphasized that his performance throughout the season warrants his inclusion. Taylor will have a bye week to recover and potentially climb back up the rankings. Kamario Taylor and Mississippi State's perfect season ended with a loss to Alabama. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

  5. CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame: Carr has been consistently performing for Notre Dame, completing 71% of his passes with 13 touchdowns and only one interception through five games. Griffin is looking forward to seeing Carr's continued development throughout the season.