The landscape of professional football scouting has changed dramatically with the rise of the transfer portal and NIL deals, but one truth remains untouched: if you can play, the NFL will find you. Recent drafts have reinforced this reality, with FCS prospects continuing to hear their names called earlier than ever. The stigma once attached to “small-school players” is fading fast, replaced by a traits-driven evaluation model that values explosiveness, processing speed, and functional toughness over helmet logos.
Looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft, a new wave of FCS and Division II prospects is quietly building momentum. These are players living in the margins of scouting notebooks and late-night film sessions—often overlooked publicly, but not inside NFL buildings. For analysts, fans, and even users of nfl betting apps trying to anticipate future value plays, tracking this tier of talent early can provide a real informational edge. Below is a refined, cleanly structured look at ten under-the-radar small-school prospects whose skill sets translate far beyond their level of competition.
1. Bryce Lance — WR | North Dakota State (FCS)
The last name draws instant attention, but Bryce Lance is earning his evaluation on merit. A long, fluid X-receiver, he shows natural vertical stacking ability and clean ball tracking downfield. Early in the 2025 season, a significant percentage of his receptions resulted in first downs or explosive plays, underlining his efficiency rather than volume-based production. His profile fits that of a developmental outside receiver with legitimate starter upside in timing-based passing offenses.
2. Daniel Sobkowicz — WR | Illinois State (FCS)
Sobkowicz wins before the ball arrives. His release package, body control, and ability to separate at the top of routes have made him one of the most technically refined receivers at the FCS level. After a quieter showing against top competition early, he responded with elite touchdown production and consistent chain-moving impact. Scouts see him as a rotational NFL receiver with the traits to grow into a high-volume option.
3. Erick Hunter — LB | Morgan State (FCS)
Modern linebackers must survive in space, and Hunter checks that box convincingly. Long-limbed with real sideline range, he combines tackling production with disruptive plays behind the line of scrimmage. His confidence shows up on special teams and in coverage situations, where he mirrors tight ends effectively. Hunter projects best as a sub-package linebacker with upside in aggressive defensive schemes.
4. Kaleb Proctor — IDL | Southeastern Louisiana (FCS)
Proctor’s evaluation changed when he proved his game translated against elite competition. His performance against LSU showcased first-step quickness, active hands, and interior pass-rush feel. He profiles as a penetrating 3-technique who wins with leverage and burst rather than raw mass. NFL teams will view him as a rotational interior disruptor with upside if his frame continues to develop.
5. Jaden Craig — QB | Harvard (FCS)
Craig fits the NFL backup archetype: efficient, accurate, and decisive. He processes quickly, delivers with consistent timing, and rarely puts the ball in danger. His compact release and calm pocket presence stand out more than raw arm strength. Teams value quarterbacks who can manage games and stabilize offenses, and Craig’s profile aligns well with that long-term role.
6. Jack Strand — QB | MSU Moorhead (DII)
At Division II level, Strand’s physical traits dominate the conversation. His size and arm strength are unmistakable, and his touchdown production reflects that advantage. While refinement is still required—particularly in decision-making—his tools are NFL-caliber. In a region already heavily scouted, his visibility benefits from geographic convenience and measurable upside.
7. Treyvhon Saunders — WR | Colgate (FCS)
Few receivers in the FCS command defensive attention like Saunders. High-usage, high-production, and highly competitive, he consistently wins through contact and creates yards after the catch. His breakout performances reflect not just opportunity, but reliability across route concepts. Saunders projects naturally to the slot at the next level, where toughness and spatial awareness are critical.
8. Chris Corbo — TE | Dartmouth (FCS)
Corbo brings functional athleticism and mental processing that scouts trust. As both a reliable pass catcher and a willing blocker, he offers alignment flexibility. His understanding of spacing and leverage shows up in the red zone and in run-fit responsibilities. NFL evaluators see a tight end who can contribute early in structured offensive systems.
9. Ricky Freymond — DE | Western Colorado (DII)
Freymond’s motor never shuts off. His athletic profile suggests significant developmental runway, especially as a situational edge rusher. While still refining his pass-rush plan, his explosiveness and effort consistently overwhelm Division II tackles. Strong postseason testing could elevate him rapidly from priority free agent to draftable asset.
10. Joe Cooper — OG | Slippery Rock (DII)
Cooper wins with power and intent. Built for interior play, he generates movement at the point of attack and shows surprising mobility climbing to the second level. While he lacks tackle length, his guard projection is clear. Teams seeking physical identity along the interior offensive line have taken notice.
How NFL Teams Evaluate Small-School Talent
Scouting departments consistently return to three pillars when assessing non-Power-Five prospects:
Immediate trait translation, where explosiveness and movement skills stand out instantly on film
Repeatable production, regardless of opponent familiarity
A defined NFL role, not just raw athletic potential
Testing still matters, but for small-school players, agility and explosion metrics often outweigh straight-line speed. Internal evaluations frequently emphasize short-area quickness and lower-body power as indicators of on-field scalability.
Showcase Events and the Final Filter
All-star games and postseason workouts remain decisive. These environments compress evaluation timelines, forcing prospects to prove themselves against higher-caliber opponents without schematic protection. One dominant practice rep—especially for receivers and pass rushers—can alter a prospect’s draft trajectory dramatically.
Why “Steals” Still Exist
NFL history consistently rewards those willing to look deeper. Small-school prospects often arrive more mentally resilient, technically refined, and hungry for opportunity. As the 2026 draft cycle advances, these ten names represent value pockets—players capable of outperforming draft position and reshaping depth charts faster than expected.
In a league built on speed, pressure, and efficiency, ignoring small-school talent is no longer a luxury teams can afford.
