2024-2025 Small School Prospect Interviews (Recap)

Part of our Mission Statement for NFL Draft Diamonds is to identify and highlight players from all levels of competition and give them a platform to share their story. As this draft cycle comes to a close, I want to breakdown some of the top small school players who I’ve had the privilege of interviewing this season. For the sake of length, I’m listing just one player per position. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel where you can view more interviews of other great players.

QB-Taylor Elgersma, Wilfrid Laurier
Wilfrid Laurier quarterback Taylor Elgersma is generating significant buzz ahead of the draft as the first U Sports Canadian quarterback invited to the Reese’s Senior Bowl. Elgersma had a remarkable season in 2024 throwing for over 4000 yards and 34 TDs and earning the prestigious Hec Crighton Trophy, Canada’s equivalent of the Heisman. He showcases great athletic potential with prototypical size and demonstrates the ability to make quick, accurate throws under pressure. His elite physical traits paired with his remarkable competitive toughness not only make him the top CFL prospect this season, but make him a strong candidate to be drafted in the NFL as well.

RB-ShunDerrick Powell, Central Arkansas
Central Arkansas running back ShunDerrick Powell is an explosive and versatile playmaker who’s flying under the radar in this year’s draft. Though he doesn’t have ideal size for the position, he makes up for it with elite athleticism and production. Powell delivered a standout season in 2024, rushing for 1343 yards and having 36 receptions for 318 yards, showcasing his ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver. He’s dangerous in open space with good burst, speed, and vision, consistently eluding defenders and creating big plays.

Powell further elevated his stock with a strong performance at the Hula Bowl, and also turned heads with a fantastic Pro Day, recording a 4.40 40-yard dash, a 40.5-inch vertical jump, and a 10’9″ broad jump. His dynamic skill set and high-level athleticism make him a sleeper who’s ready to make an immediate impact at the next level.

WR-Efton Chism III, Eastern Washington
Efton Chism III was a key component of Eastern Washington’s explosive offense and one of the most polished route runners in this year’s draft class. Known for his sure hands, crisp footwork, and high football IQ, Chism consistently delivered at a high level throughout his college career—surpassing even Cooper Kupp in several statistical categories. A dependable playmaker and relentless competitor, Chism capped off his collegiate journey with All-American honors, finishing the 2024 season with 130 receptions for 1311 yards and 13 touchdowns. Chism’s impact extends beyond his on-field production as a well-respected team captain whose character and leadership is also seen in the classroom and in the community. He impressed scouts with a strong showing at the Hula Bowl, which led to being called up to the East-West Shrine Bowl. With momentum on his side, Chism has firmly placed himself in the conversation as a potential late-round gem in this year’s NFL Draft.

TE-Mitchell Van Vooren, St. Norbert
Mitchell Van Vooren is an intriguing tight end prospect out of St. Norbert College, combining elite athleticism with an impressive physical frame. Originally enrolling at Marquette University, Van Vooren made his mark as a standout track and field athlete, clocking personal bests of 48.13 in the 400m and 1:56.20 in the 800m—eye-popping numbers for someone standing 6’5” and weighing 240 pounds.

After transferring to St. Norbert to pursue football full-time, Van Vooren quickly emerged as a go-to target in the passing game, leading the team in receiving each of the past two seasons. His rare blend of size, speed, and explosiveness has caught the attention of NFL scouts, especially following his strong showing at the College Gridiron Showcase. As the pre-draft process continues, Van Vooren’s stock is on the rise. He’s widely seen as a high-upside, late-round prospect with the tools to develop into a versatile weapon at the next level.

OT-Marshall Foerner, Minnesota State-Mankato
Marshall Foerner is one of the most impressive Division II prospects in this year’s draft class, standing out with ideal size and 34″ arms that make him a valuable presence in the trenches. A dominant force throughout his college career, Foerner is a three-time First Team All-NSIC honoree and earned All-American honors in 2024.

Foerner combines an explosive first step with a powerful upper body, consistently winning at the point of attack by using disciplined hands and refined technique. A smart, high-IQ lineman with four years of starting experience, he excels as a run blocker and is proven to be effective in pass protection.

Foerner impressed scouts at the College Gridiron Showcase and elevated his stock even further at his Pro Day, where he posted a 31.5″ vertical, a 9’2″ broad jump, and an outstanding 9.27 Relative Athletic Score (RAS). With his blend of size, athleticism, and experience, Foerner is firmly on the radar as a potential late-round selection or high-priority free agent.

OG-Jackson Slater, Sacramento State
Sacramento State offensive lineman Jackson Slater is one of the top small-school prospects in this year’s draft class who possesses an impressive blend of experience, versatility, and physicality. Slater is a top-tier talent at the FCS level who showcased consistency and reliability throughout his career, starting 44 games and earning numerous accolades, including three All-Big Sky First Team honors, 2024 Consensus All-American recognition, and a coveted invitation to play among the elite at the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl.

Slater is a powerful presence in the trenches who excels at anchoring the line with strength and control. He’s a relentless mauler in the run game and demonstrates his competitiveness and strength in pass protection. His sharp field awareness and high football IQ have many scouts projecting him as a potential fit at center at the next level. His versatility, intelligence, and toughness make him a strong candidate as a potential late-round draft pick who could develop into a valuable asset on an NFL offensive line.

OC-Joey Lombard, South Dakota
Joey Lombard is a standout offensive lineman from South Dakota and one of the premier centers in the FCS. Boasting a wide frame, 82-inch wingspan, and 48 career starts, he anchored an offense that led the nation with 7.44 yards per play in 2024. A 2024 All-Missouri Valley First Team selection and AP Second Team All-American, Lombard brings added value with his versatility, having played both tackle and guard earlier in his career. Known for his high football IQ, toughness, and strong work ethic, he showcased his skills at the College Gridiron Showcase, solidifying his status as a quality prospect in this year’s draft class.

DL-Eli Mostaert, North Dakota State
Eli Mostaert is a tenacious member of the North Dakota State defensive line who exhibits remarkable quickness and a relentless motor. He shows the ability to push the pocket, demonstrating his ability as an effective run stopper and consistently putting pressure on the quarterback. In 2024, Mostaert’s season was highlighted with his 3rd National Championship with NDSU as well as earning First-Team All-Conference and All-American recognition. Mostaert’s impressive strength, toughness and intensity make him one of the top small-school prospects in this season’s draft.

EDGE-Elijah Ponder, Cal Poly
Elijah Ponder is a dynamic edge rusher from Cal Poly who began his athletic career as a standout three-sport athlete at Bishop Amat High School in California, excelling in football, basketball, and track & field—where he posted an elite 47-foot mark in the triple jump. That explosiveness translated to the field, where he developed into one of the top pass rushers in the FCS, finishing with 26.5 career sacks.

Ponder brings an elite first step, exceptional speed off the edge, and standout lateral quickness, making him a constant challenge for offensive linemen. He also adds value on special teams, with multiple blocked kicks during his college career. After a strong performance at the Hula Bowl, he earned a call-up to the East-West Shrine Bowl, further boosting his draft stock. At his Pro Day, Ponder showcased his elite athleticism with a 4.63 40-yard dash, 41-inch vertical, 11-foot broad jump, and a 9.7 RAS score—firmly establishing himself as one of the most athletic edge prospects in this year’s class.

LB-Noah Martin, Samford
Noah Martin is a standout linebacker from Samford University who brings consistency, intelligence, and versatility to the field. Over 53 career games, he totaled an impressive 422 tackles, reflecting his durability and high-level production. A natural leader with excellent instincts, Martin shows strong pursuit and solid athleticism, moving well laterally and excelling against the run. He’s also capable in coverage and has been a key contributor on special teams. His well-rounded skill set and football IQ make him a valuable, NFL-ready prospect.

CB-Isas Waxter II, Villanova
Isas Waxter II is a standout cornerback from Villanova, recognized for his physicality and versatility, earning First Team All-CAA honors in 2024 after a remarkable senior season. His aggressive playing style shines in press coverage, where he effectively disrupts routes with active hands and strong technique, while also displaying notable intensity in run support. Waxter led the CAA with three forced fumbles, showcasing his knack for creating turnovers and his relentless tackling ability. His lateral quickness and sharp football instincts allow him to excel in both man and zone coverage, and he possesses the positional versatility to potentially transition to safety in the NFL if needed. With an impressive finish to his collegiate career, highlighted by an invitation to the East-West Shrine Bowl, Waxter aims to emulate former Villanova standout Christian Benford’s success who was a late-round pick in 2022.

S-Robert McDaniel, Jackson State
Robert McDaniel is an impressive defensive back from Jackson State, recognized as one of the Top HBCU prospects in this year’s draft due to his physicality, versatility, and aggressive playstyle. Known for being a heavy hitter, McDaniel excels in coverage and run support, often finding himself around the football thanks to his relentless motor and sharp instincts. His versatility allows him to be effective in various roles, including as a nickel linebacker and cornerback, where his aggressive nature shines in press coverage. McDaniel impressed scouts with a great performance at the HBCU Legacy Bowl and further solidified his status with a great Pro Day. He recorded a 39-inch vertical and a 10-foot-10 broad jump—highlighting his explosiveness and athletic upside. With a unique blend of size, strength, and versatility, McDaniel is an intriguing prospect poised to make a significant impact at the professional level.