NFL Scouts

This week, a player asked me, "What do NFL scouts ask you when they come to visit campus?" This question tells me he’s already focused on what it takes to reach the next level. And it’s a question worth answering, because if you’re serious about advancing in your football career, understanding what scouts look for is key. When NFL scouts visit an FCS program like ours, they’re not just looking at talent or stats —they’re looking deeper, trying to get a feel for the whole athlete. If they’re here, they already know we have players putting up numbers. What they’re really interested in are the qualities that don’t show up in a box score. To understand their perspective, it helps to think about the risk they’re taking. Scouts and coaches make a living by identifying the best players for their organizations. For a small school player to get a shot, scouts need to be convinced, beyond a doubt, that this athlete has the intangibles necessary to succeed. A player from a big program with big numbers may have a margin for error, but for an FCS player, scouts are looking for signs that they have the discipline and drive to succeed independently. Here’s what scouts ask about most: 1. Habits and Independence: Scouts want to know if a player has the discipline to take care of themselves. Do they stretch, roll out, and handle their recovery? Are they proactive about nutrition? As a small school athlete, you’re expected to have these habits down because you’re likely headed to a city where you’ll need to manage this on your own. They want players who already live like pros. 2. Love for the Game: Perhaps the biggest question: Does this player truly love football? Not just when it’s game time, but in all the details that make up the daily grind. Do they ask good questions in meetings? Do they watch film on their own? Are they putting in the extra work even when it’s not expected? Scouts want players who are passionate about every part of the process, not just the highlights.

3. Team Fit and Chemistry: Scouts also ask about the player’s relationship with teammates and coaches. Are they supportive? Are they connected outside the locker room? Are they the type to come in early for treatment when it’s needed? These details matter, because teams want players who are committed not just to their own performance, but to the team as a whole. The jump from FCS to the NFL is similar to the leap from high school to college. It’s about proving you’re prepared to handle the next level, and the small things often make the difference. Scouts want to know if a player can take ownership of their development, not just when people are watching, but every day. If you’re a coach, share this with your players. Help them understand what it takes to stand out and make their dream a reality. Keep the Fire Burning, Leech Check out this podcast I was on where I talk about Contact Prep and my course that's coming out, Scores and Stops. Move the Needle Podcast Follow me on Twitter! I try to share training clips, thoughts, and ideas daily there. Twitter Profile RemovemyEmail · Preferences