Alex McLaughlin Named to Midseason All-America Team

The University of Washington safety earned the recognition following a standout performance in his first seven games.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Football

Alex McLaughlin Named to Midseason All-America Team

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The Sporting News selected Washington strong safety Alex McLaughlin for its Midseason All-America Team. McLaughlin is one of five defensive backs to receive the honor on the list of 25 players.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the impact of the defensive leader as he helps anchor the secondary for the University of Washington. His performance underscores the talent influx from his 2025 transfer from Northern Arizona.

McLaughlin has recorded 48 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks across seven games. Throughout his three and a half season career, he has accumulated 309 total tackles, 10 interceptions, and 23 pass break-ups.

The players

Alex McLaughlin

He is a 6-foot-2 strong safety for the University of Washington who previously played for Northern Arizona.

The Sporting News

This American sports magazine publishes annual honors including the Midseason All-America Team.

University of Washington

This public research university in Seattle fields the Huskies football team in the Big Ten Conference.

The details

Standing at 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, McLaughlin leads the Huskies in tackles this season while also recording two interceptions and one forced fumble. He joined the Washington roster in 2025 after spending time at Northern Arizona.

2025: McLaughlin transferred to the University of Washington.
Summer 2026: The NCAA implemented the five in five rule.
October 21, 2026: The Sporting News released its Midseason All-America Team.
2027: McLaughlin is eligible to play a potential fifth college season.

Season Trajectory

The NCAA five in five rule fundamentally reshapes how veteran players like McLaughlin manage their collegiate careers. This selection validates his role as a central pillar of the Washington defense during a season where the team holds a 4-3 overall record.

McLaughlin currently leads the team in tackles, making him a critical asset for defensive depth in Big Ten conference play. His status as a primary playmaker directly affects the team's defensive ranking as they look to improve their 1-3 conference record.

The takeaway

McLaughlin serves as a high-impact example of the success transfers can find when transitioning to new conference environments. His production provides a benchmark for defensive secondary performance for the remainder of the 2026 season.