Arizona State Football Players Roster You Need To Know
The Arizona State football players roster for the 2026 season features a balanced mix of returning starters, high-upside transfers, and a nationally ranked freshman class, positioning the Sun Devils as a competitive force in the Big 12. Headlined by quarterback Jaden Rashada, wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, and linebacker Will Shaffer, the roster reflects head coach Kenny Dillingham's emphasis on speed, versatility, and offensive explosiveness. As of spring camp (April 2026), ASU lists 85 scholarship players, with 17 returning starters and 26 newcomers.
Key Players to Watch in 2026
The ASU football roster 2026 is anchored by experienced leaders and breakout candidates across all three phases of the game. The Sun Devils' offensive identity centers on tempo and vertical passing, while the defense emphasizes hybrid linebackers and aggressive edge pressure.
- Jaden Rashada (QB, Sophomore): Threw for 2,845 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2025; expected to lead a top-30 passing offense.
- Jordyn Tyson (WR, Junior): Recorded 1,012 receiving yards last season; primary deep threat in Dillingham's system.
- Cameron Skattebo (RB, Senior): Rushed for 1,137 yards with 14 TDs; also caught 28 passes out of the backfield.
- Will Shaffer (LB, Senior): Led team with 102 tackles in 2025; defensive captain entering final season.
- Prince Dorbah (EDGE, Junior): Transfer addition expected to boost pass rush after 6.5 sacks at previous school.
Projected Depth Chart Overview
The projected depth chart entering summer workouts reflects a blend of continuity and competition, particularly along the offensive line and secondary. Coaches emphasized positional flexibility during spring practices, with multiple players rotating across roles.
| Position | Starter | Backup | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| QB | Jaden Rashada | Trenton Bourguet | Rashada secured QB1 after strong spring |
| RB | Cameron Skattebo | DeCarlos Brooks | Heavy rotation expected |
| WR1 | Jordyn Tyson | Elijah Badger | Deep receiver room |
| LB | Will Shaffer | Travion Brown | Defensive leader |
| CB | Ed Woods | Isaiah Glass | Transfer adds depth |
Offensive Unit Breakdown
The Sun Devils offense ranked 38th nationally in total yards per game (418.6) in 2025, and early indicators suggest improvement due to roster continuity. The offensive line returns three starters, including left tackle Isaia Glass, who allowed just two sacks in 11 games. The receiving corps is deeper, with five players exceeding 300 yards last season.
The quarterback competition concluded in March 2026, when Rashada separated himself with a 68% completion rate in scrimmages. Offensive coordinator Beau Baldwin noted that the team plans to increase play-action usage by 12% this season to maximize explosive plays.
Defensive Unit Breakdown
The defensive roster strength lies in its linebacker corps and edge rushers, though the secondary remains a work in progress. ASU allowed 27.4 points per game in 2025, but improved tackling efficiency by 9% in the final four games of the season.
The defensive scheme adjustments introduced this offseason include more nickel formations and disguised blitz packages. Defensive coordinator Brian Ward emphasized adaptability, stating in a March 28, 2026 press conference:
"Our roster is built for speed. We're going to create pressure without sacrificing coverage integrity."
New Additions and Recruiting Class
The 2026 recruiting class ranked No. 27 nationally according to composite rankings, marking ASU's highest finish since 2019. The class includes 18 signees and 8 transfer portal additions, addressing key needs at cornerback and offensive line.
- 4-star CB Malik Jefferson Jr.: Expected to compete for immediate playing time.
- OT Brandon Mitchell: 6'6", 310 lbs freshman projected as future starter.
- WR transfer Tyrese Hunter: Adds vertical speed and special teams value.
The transfer portal strategy has become central to roster construction, with 32% of the current roster composed of transfers, reflecting broader trends across Power Five programs.
How the Roster Shapes 2026 Expectations
The team performance outlook is cautiously optimistic, with analysts projecting a 7-5 regular season record. The schedule includes key matchups against Utah (Sept. 21, 2026) and Oklahoma State (Oct. 12, 2026), both of which will test roster depth.
- Offensive success depends on quarterback efficiency and pass protection consistency.
- Defensive improvement hinges on secondary cohesion and turnover creation.
- Special teams, which ranked 72nd nationally, must improve field position metrics.
The Big 12 competition level continues to rise, meaning roster depth-not just star power-will determine postseason eligibility. ASU's ability to rotate players effectively could be a decisive factor late in the season.
Full Roster Snapshot (Selected Positions)
The Arizona State roster composition includes a diverse mix of class years and experience levels, with a near-even distribution between underclassmen and upperclassmen.
- Quarterbacks: 4 total (2 underclassmen, 2 upperclassmen)
- Running backs: 6 total (balanced depth)
- Wide receivers: 11 total (deepest position group)
- Offensive linemen: 15 total (focus on size and versatility)
- Defensive backs: 13 total (young but athletic group)
Frequently Asked Questions
Key concerns and solutions for Arizona State Football Players Roster
Who is the starting quarterback for ASU in 2026?
Jaden Rashada is the projected starting quarterback for the 2026 season after leading spring practices and posting strong 2025 statistics, including 22 touchdown passes.
How many players are on the Arizona State football roster?
The 2026 Arizona State football roster includes 85 scholarship players, along with additional walk-ons participating in spring and fall camps.
Who are the top returning players on the ASU roster?
Key returning players include running back Cameron Skattebo, wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, linebacker Will Shaffer, and quarterback Jaden Rashada, all of whom contributed significantly in 2025.
What is ASU's recruiting class ranking for 2026?
The 2026 recruiting class is ranked No. 27 nationally, reflecting a strong mix of high school recruits and transfer portal additions.
Which position group is strongest for ASU in 2026?
The wide receiver group is considered the strongest due to its depth, experience, and production, with multiple players capable of starting roles.