Washington Huskies star ranked among college football's top sophomores

As the Washington Huskies prepare for the 2026 college football season, left guard John Mills is being positioned as a cornerstone of the offense. Pro Football Focus ranks Mills as the No. 8 best sophomore in the nation. In 2025, he played nine games at left guard and two at right tackle, allowing only eight pressures and earning Freshman All-America honors. With Phil Steele naming him a Preseason Second Team All-American, Mills—now a captain under coach Jedd Fisch—said the key for the line is consistency among all five players. He emphasized that strong performances need to be synchronized to avoid costly mistakes like tackles for loss or sacks. Washington’s front includes veterans Drew Azzopardi and Landen Hatchett, plus prospects Kodi Greene and Champ Taulealea.