Understanding Draft Eligibility
When a player enters the NFL draft, they often face significant uncertainty. With 256 players being drafted each year, the vast majority of college football players will not hear their names called. But what happens if you don’t get drafted? Can you return to college football, or are your options limited?
Returning to College Football
Players who go undrafted have several paths available to them. One of the most attractive options is to return to college football. According to NCAA rules, players must declare for the draft to lose their NCAA eligibility. If a player decides to test the draft waters but does not sign with an agent, they may retain their college eligibility.
NCAA Rules and Regulations
The NCAA has specific guidelines regarding draft eligibility:
- A player can declare for the draft and return to college football if they do not sign with an agent.
- If a player signs an agent, they lose their eligibility.
- Players must inform their college of their decision to enter the draft before a specific deadline.
These rules allow players to test their professional prospects while keeping the option of returning to college open. For instance, a player like Chase Young in 2020 declared for the draft but had opted to return for his senior year after considering his options. Despite his initial declaration, he was ready to take another shot at college football.
Consequences and Considerations
While a return to college is possible, there are crucial factors to consider:
- Scholarship Status: Players must ensure they can regain their scholarship, as schools may have limited resources available for returning players.
- Team Composition: Returning players might need to compete against new recruits who might take their position.
- Timing: Players should be aware of the deadlines set by the NCAA, as missing them can eliminate their chances to return.
Case Studies: Successful Returns
Many players have opted to return to college after not being drafted, demonstrating that the journey doesn’t end after the draft. Here are a few examples:
- Case Study 1: Anthony Miller
Miller was drafted in 2018 after declaring for the draft but spent an additional year in college honing his skills, resulting in a better NFL transition. - Case Study 2: Deshaun Watson
Watson declared for the draft but chose to return for his senior year. His improved performance led him to the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
These players benefitted from returning, showcasing that hard work and skill development during their additional college years can lead to better opportunities in professional football.
Statistics on Draft Outcomes
The statistics paint a revealing picture of draft outcomes and the importance of college performance:
- Approximately 250,000 high school football players aim to play at the NCAA level.
- From those, only around 16,000 will play at the NCAA Division I level.
- Only 1.6% of collegiate players will make it to the NFL.
Given these numbers, it’s clear that returning to college can be a beneficial choice, regardless of unexpected draft outcomes. Players can focus on improving their skills and enhancing their visibility, which can significantly improve their prospects for a future in professional sports.
Conclusion
In summary, if you don’t get drafted, returning to college is a viable option that can lead to future success. Understanding NCAA regulations, assessing scholarship conditions, and being aware of personal development can help players navigate their next steps. The journey may be challenging, but with perseverance, players may still forge a significant path in football.
