5 Returning Indiana Players Who Could Define the Hoosiers’ 2026 Season
Indiana’s transfer portal additions grabbed most of the attention this offseason, but several returning players are positioned to play much bigger roles as the Hoosiers prepare for the 2026 campaign.
After bringing back significant production in 2025—along with quarterback Fernando Mendoza through the portal—Indiana enters this season with a different roster makeup. Even so, a core group of returners is expected to help shape the team’s success.
Khobie Martin, Running Back
Khobie Martin flashed plenty of potential in 2025, rushing for 505 yards and six touchdowns on just 78 carries while averaging an impressive 6.5 yards per attempt. Much of that production came in limited opportunities, however, as Roman Hemby and Kaelon Black handled the bulk of the workload after each eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark.
Now, Martin is expected to take on a much larger role. Head coach Curt Cignetti praised his development during spring practice, saying Martin had improved as much as any player from Indiana’s first recruiting class. If he forms an effective tandem with transfer running back Turbo Richard, the Hoosiers could once again field a productive rushing attack.
Drew Evans, Offensive Line
Drew Evans returns after starting 12 games at left guard last season before missing time with injury, giving Indiana an experienced and dependable presence in the trenches.
The coaching staff has also explored moving Evans to center following Pat Coogan’s departure. Cignetti noted during the spring that Evans has the ability to excel at the position, highlighting his versatility as a valuable asset. Whether he lines up at guard or center, Evans is expected to anchor one of the Hoosiers’ most important position groups.
Amare Ferrell, Safety
Amare Ferrell heads into 2026 as one of the Big Ten’s top returning defensive backs after recording 48 tackles, six pass breakups and four interceptions last season.
Beyond his production on the field, Ferrell’s experience will be critical as Indiana integrates several new faces into the secondary. His leadership and communication should play a major role in helping stabilize the Hoosiers’ defensive backfield.
Blake Thiry, Tight End
After taking a redshirt in 2025 and not appearing in a game, Blake Thiry enters this season with an opportunity to earn significant playing time.
Cignetti praised Thiry’s growth during spring practices, particularly his progress as a blocker after spending much of his high school career split out as a receiver. Indiana’s decision not to pursue a tight end in the transfer portal suggests confidence in its current group, putting Thiry in position to compete for a major role.
Daniel Ndukwe, Defensive Front
Daniel Ndukwe made the most of his postseason opportunities, totaling seven tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble while emerging as an intriguing defensive playmaker.
Although he’ll compete with Kansas State transfer Tobi Osunsanmi for snaps at the hybrid “stud” position—a role that blends defensive end and linebacker responsibilities—Ndukwe has shown enough potential to remain a consistent part of Indiana’s defensive rotation throughout the season.
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