Beyond the Power Five: Pathways to the NFL for Non-Power Five School Athletes

I have been getting asked by football players on Twitter really heavily lately is it possible to make it to the NFL from a Non Power Five. The answer is yes, it is not as easy, but if the path was supposed to easy why would you want it?

I figured I would break down the question in further detail. For many aspiring football players, the dream of making it to the NFL is the ultimate goal, regardless of the collegiate program they attend. While Power Five schools garner significant attention and resources, countless athletes from non-Power Five programs have successfully made their mark in the NFL.

We will explore the pathways to the NFL for athletes who do not attend Power Five schools and highlight the factors that contribute to their success.

They WILL FIND YOU

While Power Five schools may have higher visibility and resources, talent can be found at all levels of collegiate football. NFL scouts and talent evaluators scour the country for players who possess the skills, athleticism, and intangibles needed to succeed at the professional level. Players from non-Power Five schools have ample opportunities to showcase their abilities through game film, pro days, and postseason all-star games, leveling the playing field in the eyes of NFL decision-makers.

Performance Speaks Louder Than Pedigree

In the NFL, performance on the field outweighs the pedigree of the collegiate program. While playing for a Power Five school may provide more exposure and competition against top-tier opponents, standout performances and statistical achievements can capture the attention of NFL scouts regardless of the school’s conference affiliation. Players who consistently excel and demonstrate versatility, resilience, and leadership qualities can make a compelling case for themselves in the eyes of NFL teams.

The Rise of Small School Success Stories

In recent years, numerous NFL stars have emerged from small schools and non-Power Five programs, challenging the notion that only Power Five athletes can succeed at the highest level. Players like Carson Wentz (North Dakota State), Khalil Mack (University at Buffalo), and Cooper Kupp (Eastern Washington) have proven that talent and determination can transcend conference affiliations. These success stories serve as inspiration for aspiring athletes from non-traditional football powerhouses. We interview hundreds of these small schoolers every year on NFL Draft Diamonds.

Embracing the Underdog Mentality

Athletes from non-Power Five schools often embrace an underdog mentality, using it as fuel to prove themselves against higher-profile opponents. The chip on their shoulder and hunger for success can drive them to outwork their peers and seize every opportunity to showcase their talents. Moreover, the challenges and obstacles faced at smaller schools can instill resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic, all of which are highly valued traits in the NFL.

Seizing Opportunities and Making the Most of Them

Ultimately, making it to the NFL from a non-Power Five school requires seizing opportunities and making the most of them. Whether it’s earning playing time, excelling in postseason showcases, impressing scouts at pro days, or making a splash in rookie minicamps, athletes must capitalize on every chance to demonstrate their potential and readiness for the professional ranks. Hard work, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence can pave the way to NFL success, regardless of the collegiate program attended.

While attending a Power Five school may offer certain advantages in terms of visibility and resources, it is by no means a prerequisite for NFL success. Athletes from non-Power Five programs have proven time and again that talent, determination, and resilience are the true keys to making it to the NFL. By embracing opportunities, maximizing their potential, and refusing to be defined by conference affiliations, aspiring football players can realize their dreams of playing at the highest level, no matter where their collegiate journey begins.