The Heisman Trophy race lacked many of the surprises traditionally associated with college football's top individual award.
Alabama's Derrick Henry took home the honor, out-pacing Clemson's Deshaun Watson and Stanford's Christian McCaffrey in what was one of the closest races in several years.
While Henry will likely play in the NFL next season, Watson and McCaffrey still have plenty of college football left to play and are early Heisman favorites heading into the 2016-17 season.
Here is a look at some of the top Heisman contenders to keep an eye on:
- Deshaun Watson
The Buzz: The Clemson quarterback finished third in this year's Heisman voting behind Henry and McCaffrey. Next season, the Tigers return as many as eight starters on offense, including Watson, making a return trip to New York City in December a distinct possibility.
- Christian McCaffrey
The Buzz: McCaffrey's skill set makes him a valuable asset for the Cardinal, not only as a rusher but as a kick returner. Unfortunately, he'll be forced to carry more of the load next season with Stanford only returning as many as three starters on offense, including McCaffrey.
- Dalvin Cook
The Buzz: Cook put together the best statistical season by a running back at Florida State and somehow finished seventh in the Heisman voting. Luckily, he'll have the luxury of playing behind an offensive line that returns pretty much intact, making the 'Noles a contender in the national title race.
- Leonard Fournette
The Buzz: If the Heisman Trophy race ended on Oct. 25, Fournette more than likely would have taken home the award. Instead, he had to settle for sixth place. Sounds like the perfect motivation to fuel the LSU running back as he heads into next season.
- Baker Mayfield
The Buzz: Mayfield's story continues to be written as the former walk-on prepares to lead Oklahoma against No. 1 Clemson in the College Football Playoff Orange Bowl semifinal. But the next chapter could feature a Heisman Trophy if he can continue to improve on a season during which he passed for 3,389 yards and 35 touchdowns.
- J.T. Barrett
The Buzz: There is no denying Ohio State's quarterback play took a step back this season as Cardale Jones and J.T. Barrett played musical chairs at the position. Jones' inevitable departure to the NFL will provide Barrett with the reboot his career needs with the Buckeyes.
- DeShone Kizer
The Buzz: The dual-threat quarterback excelled after being thrust into the starting role at Notre Dame during the second week of the season after starter Malik Zaire went down with a season-ending injury. Kizer's performance should be enough to earn him the starting nod, but he will face a very difficult 2016 schedule.
- Royce Freeman
The Buzz: Freeman was one of just four running backs to rush for more than 1,700 yards this season, but he somehow was overlooked by most in the media. In two seasons, the Oregon running back is averaging more than 1,500 yards per season and could hit that mark easily in 2016.
- Seth Russell
The Buzz: Russell appeared to be on pace for a Heisman finalist season with Baylor before a season-ending injury derailed the quarterback's chances. It's not a stretch to imagine a healthy Russell back in the Bears' offensive system could find his way into the 2016 Heisman discussion.
- Nick Chubb
The Buzz: Chubb was a preseason Heisman favorite heading into 2015, but a significant knee injury ended his season after the sixth game. His return, coupled with the addition of new Georgia offensive coordinator Jim Chaney -- who favors a solid running game -- could spell good things for Chubb.
