LSU leads $50 million college football roster spend as WNBA Fever rise in rankings
A CBS Sports poll of industry insiders reveals multiple college football programs have exceeded the $40 million roster threshold for the 2026 season, with Louisiana State University reported to be the highest spender. In women’s basketball, the Indiana Fever have climbed to third in the Power Rankings following a four-game winning streak.
A CBS Sports poll of industry insiders has identified the most expensive college football rosters for the 2026 season, revealing a significant escalation in institutional spending. Multiple programs have crossed the $40 million roster threshold, marking a sharp spike in financial commitments across the sport. Louisiana State University, under head coach Lane Kiffin, is reported to be the highest spender, with figures potentially nearing $50 million.
The financial landscape has shifted dramatically, with a front-office staffer at one institution noting a 50 per cent increase in roster spend for 2026 compared to 2024. A Power Four general manager told CBS Sports that accumulating six to seven high-dollar players can quickly push a roster into the $40 million range, describing the accumulation of costs as adding up quickly.
Beyond LSU, a distinct higher spending category includes Miami, Oregon, USC, Texas, and Texas A&M. These institutions are operating in a financial bracket that separates them from the rest of the field, although specific total spend figures for these schools were not detailed in the source material. The report coincides with the release of the preseason Top 25 AP poll, generating heightened attention for the upcoming season.
In the WNBA, the Indiana Fever have risen to third place in the latest Power Rankings compiled by Jack Maloney. The team has won four consecutive games, a run that has significantly increased their odds of securing a top-four seed in the playoffs. Caitlin Clark has been central to this success, averaging 25.8 points, 10 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game during the streak.
The Phoenix Mercury have also made headlines by retiring Diana Taurasi’s No. 3 jersey. The ceremony included a highlight reel of her top five career moments, honouring the legacy of the WNBA legend. The Mercury currently sit at 11th in the standings, while the bottom of the Power Rankings includes the Sparks, Sun, Storm, and Tempo.
