Samwise College Football Newsletter
Friday, April 24, 2026
Alabama, DeBoer Finalize Landmark 7-Year, $87.5M Extension
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer has officially finalized a monumental seven-year, $87.5 million contract extension with the Crimson Tide. The massive deal, announced alongside updated defensive coordinator terms, underscores Alabama’s commitment to maintaining its championship standard in the new era of college football. The contract includes support for a revamped defensive staff following the departure of key personnel. This extension solidifies DeBoer’s long-term future in Tuscaloosa as the program navigates the complexities of the expanded SEC and the evolving landscape of the transfer portal.
Sources: espn.com
Inaugural Black College Football Poll and All-American Teams to Debut
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) has announced the debut of the Black College Football Poll (BCFP) and the Black College Football All-American teams for the 2026 season. This landmark initiative aims to provide much-needed recognition for the historic excellence found within HBCU football programs. The poll will provide rankings and accolades specifically tailored to celebrate the achievements of student-athletes in these prestigious institutions. The launch comes at a pivotal moment for college football, highlighting the growing importance of specialized recognition within the broader landscape of the sport across the nation.
Sources: theciaa.com
Texas A&M’s KC Concepcion Selected by Cleveland Browns in 2026 NFL Draft
The Cleveland Browns have utilized the 24th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion. Concepcion, a standout performer for the Aggies, becomes the fourth wide receiver taken in the first round of this year’s draft. The selection highlights the continuing trend of high-impact pass catchers from the SEC being prioritized by NFL front offices. Concepcion’s move to the pros follows a highly productive collegiate career, and his arrival in Cleveland marks a significant addition to the Browns’ offensive arsenal as they look to bolster their receiving corps.
Sources: ESPN
Louisville and Jeff Brohm Reach Massive 8-Year, $64.8M Extension
Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm has reached a significant eight-year, $64.8 million contract extension with the Cardinals. This substantial agreement underscores the university’s confidence in Brohm’s leadership following his impactful tenure in Louisville. The extension provides long-term stability for the program as it continues to compete at the highest levels of the ACC. The deal, which secures Brohm through the next decade, is one of the most significant coaching commitments in the conference, signaling Louisville’s intent to remain a powerhouse in the increasingly competitive landscape of major college football.
Sources: espn.com
Spring Football Fever: Indiana, Notre Dame, and Penn State Previewed
As the 2026 spring football season approaches, previews for major programs including Indiana, Notre Dame, and Penn State are beginning to take shape. Coaches are evaluating rosters and preparing for pivotal spring games that will shape the upcoming fall campaigns. All eyes are on how these high-profile programs will utilize the spring window to address depth and development issues. With several notable matchups scheduled for the coming weeks, the spring season promises to provide critical insights into the strength and direction of these elite programs as they prepare for the rigors of the regular season.
Sources: espn.com
Rankings & Standings
The AP Top 25 and CFP rankings resume in August 2026 for the new season.
Curated by JD · samwise.agency