The Tigers will feature at least five new starters on offense this season, and after an up-and-down year in 2025, there's a chance the 2026 iteration could be much improved.
After wrapping up spring practice, we have a pretty decent idea of what the starting lineup could like. So is the 2026 March offense slated to be better than the one from a year ago?
Quarterback
Beau Pribula came in last year as a highly touted transfer, but injuries and uneven play left the Tigers looking for more. Freshman Matt Zollers filled in occasionally, but despite some strong showings, wasn't ready to take on the starting role in 2026. So Eli Drinkwitz and the Tigers went out and got Ole Miss transfer Austin Simmons, a very skilled quarterback that comes with plenty of question marks.
Simmons has just 107 attempts in his career, which has been setback by some injuries. He's got a rocket arm and good mobility, but is still very unproven. Ultimately, it's hard to say the Tigers are in a better spot here than in 2025, as they went potential over production in the portal. That's not to say it was a bad idea, and things could go very well, or, we could see Zollers by mid-season.
Running Back
There's not much to say here, as Mizzou returns one of the best backfields in the country. This is the Tigers' bread and butter, and Ahmad Hardy should certainly be on Heisman watch.
Wide Receiver
Missouri lost their leading receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. to graduation and a number of other contributors to the transfer portal, so this room will look very different in 2026. Simmons' former Ole Miss teammate Cayden Lee will be the featured option, with Cincinnati transfer Caleb Goodie and returning sophomore Donovan Olugbode also in the mix.
This room feels improved, especially with the tantalizing connection that Simmons and Lee bring over. Goodie is a speedster who can stretch the field, and Olugbode is one to watch after reeling in 30 catches as a freshman.
Tight End
Much like running back, there's not much change here as Brett Norfleet will return as the starter. He's been constantly plagued by injury, but he's a solid player when healthy.
Offensive Line
After losing Keagen Trost, and then his replacement in Josh Atkins to a spring injury, things could potentially look a little shaky up front. Atkins may return at some point during the season, but until then, Simmons' blind side may be a bit concerning.
Still, it was a huge win to retain Cayden Green, who had been considering a jump to the NFL. If Mizzou can find a suitable option at right tackle, the Tigers should return a good enough line.