Kewan Lacy re-signs with Ole Miss, will return to Rebels for 2026 season

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

While Mississippi awaits word on whether its star quarterback will be back with the program next season, it got some good news about the future of one of its other top offensive players this week.

On the heels of a stellar sophomore season in which he has led his team to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff, Ole Miss running back Kewan Lacy has re-signed with the program for the 2026 season, with the school announcing the move on social media on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

Lacy has been one of the best, most dynamic running backs in the sport this season, rushing for 1,464 yards and 23 touchdowns while averaging five yards per carry. He’s second among all FBS players in rushing touchdowns and third in rushing yards.

The 5-foot-11, 210-pound Lacy is the latest offensive standout to pledge his allegiance to the Rebels for next season. On Monday, Jan. 5, quarterback Trinidad Chambliss announced he would return to Ole Miss next season, though he’s awaiting a decision from the NCAA on a waiver he filed for an extra season of eligibility.

REQUIRED READING: Fiesta Bowl preview: Miami faces Ole Miss in CFP semifinals

Lacy’s decision is particularly notable not just because of his talent and output, but because his position coach, Kevin Smith, is among the assistants leaving the Rebels to join former Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin at LSU.

Lacy arrived at Ole Miss from Missouri, where he ran for 104 yards on 23 carries as a freshman in 2024.

With Lacy in the backfield, the Rebels have had one of the most explosive offenses in college football this season, averaging 37.6 points per game. That mark ranks them 10th among 136 FBS teams.

Lacy has remained a force for Ole Miss during its run in the playoff, rushing for 185 yards and three touchdowns while averaging five yards per carry in wins against Tulane and Georgia.

The Rebels will take on Miami in the Fiesta Bowl on Thursday, Jan. 8, with the winner advancing to the national championship game on Jan. 19.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kewan Lacy staying at Ole Miss for 2026 college football season

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos