Scott Frost returns for his second season after UCF finished 5-7 overall and 2-7 in Big 12 play in 2025. Steve Cooper returns as offensive coordinator, while James Madison transfer Alonza Barnett III joins the program at quarterback. UCF must replace running backs Myles Montgomery and Jaden Nixon following their departures for the NFL, while Central Arkansas transfer Landen Chambers and Louisville transfer Duke Watson join a rebuilt backfield. The Knights return considerable production in the passing game, with Duane Thomas coming off a 53-catch season, Dylan Wade recording 43 receptions, and Waden Charles adding 26. Monmouth transfer Josh Derry also joins the receiving corps. The offensive line returns Preston Cushman after making 12 starts last season, while Connor Meadows provides additional experience at center. Buffalo transfer Henry Tabansi, UConn transfer Brady Wayburn, and Charlotte transfer Tyler Gibson add starting experience to a unit that will feature several new combinations up front.

Alex Grinch returns as defensive coordinator with UCF bringing back six of its top eleven tacklers from last season, including its top three in Lewis Carter, Cole Kozlowski, and Demari Henderson. Five of those six returners made at least 10 starts last season. Wisconsin transfer Tackett Curtis joins the linebacker group after making seven starts in 2025, while R.J. Jackson Jr. returns along the defensive line. The secondary brings back full-time starters Henderson, Antoine Jackson, and Jayden Bellamy, providing considerable continuity in the defensive backfield.

Pete Alamar returns as special teams coordinator with Texas transfer Will Stone competing to take over at placekicker. Wisconsin transfer Atticus Bertrams joins the program at punter after averaging 45.3 yards per punt last season, while Antoine Jackson returns with experience in the punt return game and Duane Thomas is among the options on kickoff returns. UCF enters 2026 with significant turnover at quarterback and running back but returns considerable experience at receiver and on defense. The Knights bring back all three leading pass catchers and six of their top eleven tacklers, including each of the top three, while several transfer additions provide experience along the offensive line.