The anticipation surrounding Super Bowl 2026 is palpable, with various personalities poised to leave a mark on the event. The Post presents a curated list of the 60 most interesting figures to keep an eye on, spanning players, coaches, broadcasters, and significant others.
On the field, the spotlight shines on players like Sam Darnold, who has navigated a tumultuous journey through multiple teams to become the quarterback for the Seahawks. Darnold”s story is one that could captivate Hollywood, especially considering he is the first quarterback from the highly scrutinized 2018 draft class to reach a Super Bowl.
Another key figure is the Seahawks” wide receiver, who has quickly established himself as a standout in the league, leading with 1,793 receiving yards and earning the AP Offensive Player of the Year title. The Seahawks selected him in the first round of the 2023 draft, and he has proven to be an invaluable asset to Darnold. Running back Kenneth Gainwell is also expected to shine in the big game, particularly with his speed and ability to break tackles, making him a central part of the Seahawks” offensive strategy.
For the Patriots, quarterback Maye is generating buzz as he aims to lead the team into a new era reminiscent of the Tom Brady days. His impressive stats in just his second year, including over 4,300 yards and a 72 percent completion rate, have drawn comparisons to the greats. However, he faces challenges off the field, dealing with a recent legal issue.
Defensive players on both sides also have pivotal roles, with Williams for the Patriots and Lawrence for the Seahawks expected to impact the game significantly. Williams has made an impressive comeback, earning a second-team All-Pro selection, while Lawrence brings experience and tenacity to the Seahawks” defense.
Coaching will also play a critical role in the outcome of the game. Macdonald, the Seahawks” head coach, has led the team to a Super Bowl in just his second season, while Vrabel, now in his second stint with the Patriots, aims to finally secure a championship after a successful turnaround season.
Broadcasting the event will be iconic figures like Mike Tirico, who will call his first Super Bowl, alongside seasoned analysts and reporters. With scrutinized officiating practices, McAuley will also be under pressure as the rules analyst, navigating the spotlight during contentious moments.
The personal lives of the players, including significant others like Cardi B, who is linked to Maye, add another layer of intrigue to the Super Bowl narrative. Other notable figures include the families of players, who often provide support and engage with fans.
Entertainment is set to be a highlight, with a star-studded halftime show and pregame performances promising to captivate audiences. As the event approaches, all eyes will be on these 60 influential personalities who will shape the Super Bowl experience.
