UAB

UAB's offseason was defined by massive roster turnover, with 33 departures costing the program 128.9 PPA while 38 arrivals added just 7.1 PPA back. The Blazers lost their top offensive weapons in wide receiver Iverson Hooks (58.5 PPA) to Oregon and running back Solomon Beebe (26.9 PPA) to Virginia, creating huge production gaps that newcomers like running back Braylon McReynolds (4.6 PPA from ULM) can't immediately fill. Quarterback Jalen Kitna returns as the starter, but he'll be working with a largely rebuilt supporting cast after receiver Corri Milliner (24.3 PPA) also transferred to North Texas. The defense projects as UAB's biggest weakness, ranking 136th nationally at -8.9 points, while the offense sits at a mediocre 88th nationally.

JP+ projects 4.5 wins for UAB in 2026, reflecting the challenge of replacing so much production in the competitive American Athletic Conference. The schedule offers some relief with home games against ULM, Charlotte, and Samford providing winnable opportunities, but road trips to South Florida and Illinois plus a home date with Navy represent serious tests for a rebuilding roster. The running back room got deeper with additions like Roderick Robinson II from Georgia and Ja'Vin Simpkins from Coastal Carolina, giving the ground game multiple options behind a veteran quarterback. If Kitna can develop chemistry quickly with his new receivers and the defense shows improvement, UAB could surprise and reach bowl eligibility. If not, another disappointing season looms large.