STANFORD CARDINAL

Stanford posted consecutive 3-9 seasons from 2021 through 2024 before finishing 4-8 in 2025 under interim head coach Frank Reich. The program fired head coach Troy Taylor in March 2025 following an investigation, and quarterback Ashton Daniels transferred to Auburn after the 2024 season. No first-round picks emerged from Stanford in the 2024 or 2025 drafts, with wide receiver Elic Ayomanor in the fourth round of 2025 being the most recent high selection. The prolonged struggles and lack of breakout NFL prospects have left the card market for recent Stanford players largely dormant, with collector interest shifting to former stars from the program's more successful era.

Where they stand: The Cardinal will be led by new head coach Tavita Pritchard in his first year, a former Stanford quarterback who served as the Washington Commanders' quarterback coach from 2023 to 2025. Stanford opens the 2026 season on August 29 against Hawaii, beginning a rebuild under Pritchard and general manager Andrew Luck. The team is currently in the preseason phase, with training camp underway as they prepare for their third season in the ACC.