The Houston Cougars football program has been ranked 24th in the USA Today Preseason Coaches Poll. This is only the third time the team has been ranked since 1992. The ranking comes after a successful 2025 season, which included a 10-win record and a Texas Bowl victory over LSU.

The team returns several key players, including starting quarterback Conner Weigman and wide receiver Amare Thomas. The defense also retains several starters, with three defensive backs coming back. Multiple players have received preseason accolades, with Weigman and Thomas earning national recognition.

Further details about the team's preseason ranking and player accolades are available from the source. The ranking and returning players suggest a promising season ahead for the Houston Cougars.