The UCF Knights football team will soon open fall preseason camp as they prepare for the 2026 season, the second under head coach Scott Frost in his return to Orlando. This roster will feature upwards of 40 new players, including transfers, freshmen, and walk-ons, to mesh with several important returnees from the 2025 team.

As we get you ready for the season, the Sons of UCF convened a panel of media and commentators who cover the team on a regular basis to rank the most important players on the 2026 roster. The criteria for “important” was left intentionally vague so that the respondents could evaluate with their individual perspective. The results were compiled and scored based on the number of votes for each player. Those scores were then used to create a Top 10 ranking, which will be unveiled in a countdown over the coming days.

The panel included Christian Simmons (Pegasus Podcast), Eric Lopez (Around The Kingdom), Brian Peterson (Sons of UCF), Jeff Allen (To Your Point), Andrew Cherico (Knights247 & Sons of UCF), Trace Trylko (Sons of UCF), and Adam Eaton (Sons of UCF).

For this installment, here are the players ranked 3rd and 4th, plus an honorable mention who fell just shy of making the list.

Honorable Mention: Josh Derry – Wide Receiver

Photo Courtesy UCF Athletics

The 5’9” senior wide receiver comes to the Knights after an All-American season at FCS Monmouth. In his three seasons with the Hawks, Derry amassed over 2,000 receiving yards, 19 touchdown receptions, and an almost 15-yard-per-catch average.

Adam Eaton: Derry gives UCF a possible deep-ball, home run threat that can keep the defense honest. His addition to the offense could help elevate the entire passing attack.

 

Christian Simmons: There’s a lot of hype around Derry, who could potentially lead what’s looking like a stacked WR room. We know what we have in Duane Thomas and can expect a leap from Waden Charles. Adding a productive Derry to the mix can make all the difference.

4. Dylan Wade – Tight End

Photo Courtesy UCF Athletics

Despite inconsistent quarterback play in 2025, the local Orlando product set records for UCF in his first season with the program, totaling 43 catches for 523 yards and 5 touchdowns. Wade is already garnering some preseason buzz as he looks to build on the success of last season.

Andrew Cherico: Tight End = Quarterback’s Best Friend, and Wade could be Barnett’s top target this season, especially after slimming down some more for looks in the open field.

 

Eric Lopez: Emerged late in the prior season to set a new UCF single-season record for tight end touchdowns. He must be a big red-zone target for Barnett.

3. Horace Lockett – Defensive Tackle

Photo Courtesy UCF Athletics

The big man in the middle gave Knights fans a scare in the off-season when he initially entered the portal, but after exploring his options, Lockett decided the best situation for him was in Orlando. As he looks to 2026, Lockett will need to work himself back to full strength after a pectoral injury sidelined him after four games. When healthy, Lockett was a presence, registering 13 tackles, 3 tackles-for-loss, and 1 sack.

Brian Peterson: The “big” return for the 2026 season is Lockett.  He’s the anchor up front.  At 355 pounds, Lockett gives the defensive front size and talent that few Big12 teams can match. Stopping the run starts with him.  He could arguably be higher on my list.

 

Jeff Allen: The redshirt senior was starting to show what a force he would be in the interior of the defensive line before injury cut his season short after 4 games. Can’t wait to see what he does for a full season this year.