The Indiana Hoosiers and first-year head coach Curt Cignetti turned heads last season, thanks in large part to their explosive offense. They lit up the scoreboard and brought a new level of creativity and precision to Bloomington — setting a new standard for what Indiana football could be.
Kurtis Rourke helped lead that transformation, and the momentum doesn’t appear to be slowing down. With California transfer Fernando Mendoza joining the quarterback room, the Hoosiers are in a strong position to keep their passing game humming.
And with a deeper, more experienced group of receivers returning, Indiana’s aerial attack could be even more dangerous this season.
One name in that room is already gaining national attention — at least according to The Athletic.
In its latest ranking of the top 25 players in the Big Ten, Indiana landed a spot in the top 15. That name? Elijah Sarratt — the breakout wide receiver who came in at No. 14 overall.
“Sarratt was among the most productive of the 13 players Cignetti brought with him from James Madison,” The Athletic wrote. “The Virginia native earned third-team All-Big Ten honors, catching 53 passes for 957 yards and eight touchdowns in helping Indiana reach the CFP.”
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
It’s a big nod for a player who didn’t enter the Big Ten with much national hype — but finished the season as one of the most consistent and dangerous receivers in the league.
At 6-foot-2, Sarratt brings a strong frame, sharp route running, and reliable hands. By the end of the year, he was clearly Rourke’s favorite target.
Now, with another offseason to grow in Cignetti’s system and a new quarterback stepping in, Sarratt is positioned to take on an even bigger role. And with Indiana entering the season as a legitimate contender, his national spotlight is only going to grow.
For a program looking to prove last season wasn’t a one-off, having a top-tier receiver like Sarratt returning gives them a real edge. And if he builds on what he did last season, don’t be surprised if his name is called early in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Because while Cignetti brought a winning culture to Bloomington — it’s players like Elijah Sarratt who are making sure it lasts.