2026 Player Spotlight

Kevin dives deep into Texas A&M WR Kevin Concepcion

The rhythm of the college football season is starting to settle in, and each week we see potential 2026 draft prospects separating themselves from the pack. In the 2026 Draft Spotlight, I highlight one emerging player whose performance and profile are elevating their stock, breaking down what it means for their draft projection, devy value, and long-term dynasty outlook.

This week, the spotlight shifts to Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, one of the most fascinating breakout stories in college football. A year ago, Chambliss was carving up Division II defenses, leading Ferris State to a 14–1 season and a national championship while flashing a toolbox that looked far too advanced for that level of competition. His QB coach, Steve Calhoun, knew the talent was real, real enough that moving up wasn’t just possible, it was necessary.

Chambliss bet on himself, made the jump to the SEC, and now he’s proving he belongs. The dual-threat playmaker has blended his trademark toughness with improved mechanics, processing, and poise against Power Five defenses. What was once “small-school production” has translated into real, sustainable quarterback play; the kind that puts you firmly on NFL radars.

From Ferris State phenom to SEC riser, Chambliss is playing his way into the national conversation. Let’s dive into why his profile is skyrocketing and what it means for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Player Introduction & Context

Every draft cycle gives us one prospect who forces evaluators to throw their old rules out the window. This year, that player might be Trinidad Chambliss. Chambliss wasn’t supposed to be here. After leading Ferris State to a 14–1 season and a Division II national championship, his QB trainer Steve Calhoun floated the idea of testing the portal. Schools would surely be intrigued, but no one expected what happened next.

The moment Chambliss entered the portal, Calhoun’s phone lit up. New Mexico, Utah, Western Kentucky, Temple; all immediate yes’s. Bigger programs like Ohio State and Minnesota kicked the tires, but only as a backup. That wasn’t what Chambliss wanted, and honestly, it wasn’t what he deserved.

Temple saw him differently. They identified him instantly as a game-changer, offered within minutes, and even planned a full-on presidential visit treatment. But when Ole Miss jumped into the race, desperate for a real backup and impressed by his championship tape, everything changed. The Rebels pitched SEC football, Lane Kiffin’s system, Charlie Weis Jr.’s development track, and a real chance to compete. The family believed in the fit, and Chambliss made the leap.

Temple was heartbroken. Ole Miss landed one of the most unique transfers we’ve seen in years. Chambliss arrived in Oxford behind Austin Simmons, fully aware he’d have to earn everything, and he did. Once Simmons went down injured, Chambliss took over and never looked back, delivering one of the most impressive “level-up” seasons of recent memory.

Through this season, Chambliss has completed 195 of 299 passes (65.2%) for 2,657 yards, 14 touchdowns, and just three interceptions, while adding 444 rushing yards on 110 carries. The same dual-threat dominance he showed at Ferris State has translated to the SEC, and that rarely happens at this scale. Before this year, the closest example was Austin Reed going from D-II to FBS stardom. But a quarterback jumping straight to the Power Four and holding his own? That’s almost unheard of, especially in the SEC.

Chambliss now stands as one of the best stories in college football: a former D-II champion who’s proven he can run an SEC offense, command a locker room, and make NFL-level throws. And with each passing week, he looks less like a novelty and more like a legitimate 2026 draft prospect. Let's take a look at the film.

Film Room – What the Tape Shows 🎥

Dear Readers,

We’re an independent site thriving thanks to the support of our valued members. By signing up for our Substack or Patreon, you’re directly contributing to keeping our business running. Subscribing to Patreon grants you access to Substack content and all of our exclusive material. Your support is crucial, and we sincerely appreciate your commitment.

Thank you for helping us continue our work.