Report: NIU Has Offer to Join MWC as CFB-Only School in 2026 amid Realignment Rumors

Northern Illinois has an offer on the table from the Mountain West to leave the Mid-American Conference for its league as a football-only school beginning with the 2026 season, per Brett McMurphy of Action Network, who cited industry sources.

That decision on whether to stay or go is "imminent." If NIU does leave, then it's unclear which league the non-football teams will play in moving forward, sources noted to McMurphy.

On September 26, McMurphy reported on the Mountain West's interest in adding Northern Illinois and Toledo as football-only members before 2026.

NIU released a statement on the matter one day later, per the Associated Press.

"Conference realignment is a highly dynamic situation, and NIU appreciates the interest in our strong brand and proven commitment to the success of our student athletes. At this time, we have not received a formal offer to consider a change."

The Pac-12 is adding five current Mountain West schools beginning with the 2026-27 collegiate sports season: Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State and Utah State.

Six schools who currently play all their sports in-conference now will remain: UNLV, Air Force, San Jose State, Wyoming, Nevada and New Mexico.

Hawai'i has been a football-only member since 2012 but will join full-time in 2026. UTEP is also joining as a full-time member in 2026. UC Davis is joining in 2026 in every sport but football. Grand Canyon is joining in 2026 in 17 sports (the school does not have a football team).

Understandably, the Mountain West would still like to add to the league, especially with only eight football schools on tap beginning in 2026. Perhaps NIU is next up.