UAB

UAB enters 2026 under new head coach Alex Mortensen dealing with massive roster reconstruction after losing 128.9 points of production through the transfer portal. The Blazers rank 129th nationally in JP+'s preseason power ratings at -14.3 points, with particular weaknesses on defense (-8.4, 132nd) and special teams (-1.1, 134th). They lost their top offensive weapons in receiver Iverson Hooks (58.5 PPA) to Oregon and running back Solomon Beebe (26.9 PPA) to Virginia, though they added running back depth with Braylon McReynolds from ULM and Roderick Robinson II from Georgia.

JP+ projects 4.4 wins for UAB, reflecting the structural uncertainty around quarterback continuity and offensive line stability after extensive personnel changes. The defense showed moderate replacement risk but avoided catastrophic losses, giving Mortensen a foundation to build around in his first season. If the quarterback situation stabilizes quickly and the running back additions provide immediate impact, UAB could exceed that modest projection in a rebuilding year. If the offensive uncertainty lingers, another sub-.500 campaign awaits in the American Athletic Conference.