NCAA Hosts NFL Draft Showcase for FCS Prospects in Nashville
The NCAA will host an NFL Draft Showcase for prospects from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) in January. This event will coincide with the Division I national championship game in Nashville. The FCS title game is set for January 5 at Vanderbilt’s FirstBank Stadium.
NCAA NFL Draft Showcase Details
The FCS Showcase is scheduled for the morning of the title game. It will feature 50 draft-eligible players participating in on-field drills for NFL scouting staff. However, underclassmen will not be part of this showcase.
Collaboration and Goals
- Craig Bohl, executive director of the American Football Coaches Association, emphasized the talent pool in the FCS.
- The AFCA has partnered with the NCAA and NFL to facilitate this event.
- Roman Oben, NFL vice president of football development, highlighted the importance of providing visibility and evaluation opportunities for FCS athletes.
Each NFL team has been invited to nominate 10-15 prospects for evaluation during the showcase. This initiative aims to level the playing field for FCS student-athletes, giving them access to the same opportunities as those from larger programs.
FCS Prospects in the NFL Draft
FCS players have historically made significant contributions to the NFL, with many appearing in the draft. Since the rebranding from Division I-AA to FCS, several players have made their mark, including first-round picks.
| Year | Player | Team | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Grey Zabel | Seattle | 1 |
| 2023 | Cody Mauch | Buccaneers | 2 |
| 2022 | Trevor Penning | Northern Iowa | 1 |
| 2022 | Cole Strange | Chattanooga | 1 |
In recent drafts, the FCS has shown its strength. In 2022, 24 FCS players were selected, which included standout receiver Christian Watson. In the 2025 draft, 15 FCS players were chosen. Since 2022, a total of 62 FCS athletes have entered the NFL through the draft.
Prominent FCS Alumni
FCS programs have produced numerous NFL stars throughout history. Notable alumni include:
- Kurt Warner (Northern Iowa)
- Randy Moss (Marshall)
- Terrell Owens (Chattanooga)
- Cooper Kupp (Eastern Washington)
- Michael Strahan (Texas Southern)
- Tony Romo (Eastern Illinois)
- Steve McNair (Alcorn State)
- Phil Simms (Morehead State)
- Jared Allen (Idaho State)
The upcoming NFL Draft Showcase underscores the growing recognition of FCS players and their important role in professional football.
