If your high school does not have a football team, transfer to one that does or join a club team. High school teams are highly preferable. Getting your high school diploma is a requirement for playing on the NFL, so study hard and plan to graduate. [2] X Research source
Ask your coach to be honest with you about your skill set so you can make a helpful list. Once you have a list of schools, research them. Check out the school’s athletic website and read up on current and former players, as well as their recruiting process.
Quality matters. Record your highlight video on a good camera, and consider hiring a professional videographer. If you’re on a budget and must tape it yourself, use a tripod to avoid camera shake. [4] X Research source
Because qualified players will need to complete academic work at an American college or university, the NCAA application is currently only available in English.
You can also call the university coaches so you can personally get to know them. Avoid having your parents call potential universities, as this is considered unprofessional.
Division I schools have the largest athletic budgets and travel nationally to play. Division II schools have less budget money and usually travel regionally. [5] X Research source Anyone is allowed to enter the NFL draft, as long as they have graduated high school. If you don’t play in college, continue training hard and consider becoming a walk-on. [6] X Research source
Most college walk-ons do not receive an athletic scholarship. Qualified walk-ons need to build good character, strong academics, and a thick skin. [8] X Research source
Rest days are just as necessary as training days. Work in one day of light activity (like walking or yoga) per week to avoid overexertion.
For example, if your upper-body strength overpowers your leg strength, focus on lower-body exercises to balance yourself.
If you do not play college football, register for the draft around your senior year of college. After you graduate college, your draft eligibility is only good for the year after you graduated (or if four football seasons have passed since you graduated high school).
If you catch a scout’s eye during the athletic drills and measurements, you may be invited to try out at the National Combine.
After your physical evaluation, you will also undergo medical examinations to gage your physical, mental, and emotional health.
If you still don’t qualify for the NFL, all is not lost. The NFL Transition Assistance Program provides college players with support while they transition to a life beyond football.
