How do you get an NCAA football scholarship if you’re not a 5-star recruit? By targeting the right programs, building coach relationships, presenting undeniable film and academics, and following a disciplined outreach plan—without the common mistakes that stall offers.
The Big Picture (for parents)
Most NCAA rosters are filled with non-blue-chip athletes who executed a smart plan. Scholarships (athletic or stacked with academic/need aid) are earned when a recruit proves three things:
He can help a program win, 2) he’ll be eligible and dependable, and 3) he actually wants them—shown through consistent, professional outreach.
Know Your Paths (pick the lane that fits)
Division I (FBS/FCS): Elite size/speed benchmarks and verified measurables; relentless competition for spots.
Division II: Strong ball with more academic + need-based stack opportunities; realistic landing zone for many.
Division III: No athletic scholarships, but significant academic/need aid; outstanding combo of education + football.
NAIA: Scholarships + flexible recruiting; great for late bloomers who communicate well and qualify academically.
JUCO (2-year): Prove it, develop, get film, then transfer with leverage.
Walk-On (PWO/WO): Not scholarship day one, but a chance to earn one after you show value.
Parent mindset: “Scholarship” can be athletic, academic, or stacked. Look for the total cost of attendance and the best fit, not just the logo.
Your 6-Part Plan (for non-5-star recruits)
1) Get honest about fit
Measurables: Height/weight, 40, shuttle, vertical, bench, position measurables (QB velocity, OL reach, DB 10-yd split).
Position traits: Use current college rosters and all-conference lists to benchmark your position.
2) Make irresistible film
Highlight video (60–90 sec upfront hitters): Best 10–15 plays first, with position-specific skills (e.g., OL hand placement + pad level; WR separation + hands; QB pocket/reads + off-platform throws; DB hips + ball skills; RB vision + contact balance).
Game cut-ups: Include 1–2 full games for coaches who want context.
Fresh links: Host on YouTube/HUDL, keep one clean, updated link.
3) Build a targeted school list (30–60 programs)
Layer by level: Stretch (5–10), realistic (20–30), safety (10–15) across DI/FCS, DII, DIII, NAIA.
Filter for fit: Scheme, depth chart by class, geography, academics (major), roster needs.
Track it: Spreadsheet with Coach Name, Role, Email, Phone, Last Touch, Next Action, Notes.
4) Pro coach outreach (and relentless follow-up)
Email subject lines: “2026 WR | 6’0” 185 | 4.58 | 3.6 GPA | 10-game film”
First email (90–150 words): Who you are, measurables + academics, link to highlight + full games, 1-sentence why their program, ask for next steps.
Cadence: Initial email → 7–10 days later a brief nudge → every 4–6 weeks with a real update (new film, verified time, award, camp dates).
After camps/visits: Thank-you email within 24–48 hours with what you learned and what you’ll improve.
5) Pick exposure that actually moves the needle
Camps where the target staff will evaluate you (college camps over random showcases).
Combines with verified times (if you’re fast—if not, train first).
In-season production: Coaches love consistent game film more than one great combine day.
6) Win the academic game
Core GPA matters. It opens academic money and signals maturity.
Eligibility Center & transcripts squared away early.
Test strategy (if applicable) + great teacher references = stackable aid.
Coach Contact & Follow-Up (do this right)
Email template (short & professional):
Subject: 2026 RB | 5’10” 195 | 4.55 | 3.7 GPA | Mid-Season Film
Coach ___,
I’m ___, a 2026 RB from ___ HS. Current measurables: 5’10” 195, 4.55 (laser), 295 bench, 425 squat; 7 games: 762 rush yds, 10 TD, 9.1 YPC; GPA 3.7 (AP Calc).
I love how your offense uses zone + gap schemes and features backs in pass pro—fits my strengths.
Highlight (90s): [link] • 2 full games: [link], [link] • Unofficial transcript: [link]
Would you like my staff to share verified combine numbers and spring schedule?
Thank you for your time.
Name | Cell | HUDL/YouTube | Twitter/IG (clean)
Follow-up playbook:
Keep receipts: Log every touch.
Deliver value: New film, verified times, updated GPA, team captaincy, camp dates.
Be coachable: If a coach asks for a skill clip, send it within 48 hours.
Grades slipping? Communicate plan + turnaround date.
Mistakes That Kill Offers (avoid these)
Spray-and-pray emails with no fit rationale.
Old or sloppy film (burying best plays, shaky camera, no context).
Ignoring academics (kills stackable aid + eligibility).
Chasing logos instead of opportunity/fit.
Inconsistent communication (ghosting or spamming).
Unverified or inflated measurables.
Toxic social feeds (language, attitudes, questionable reposts).
Wrong camps (no target coaches present).
No tracker (you forget who asked for what).
Parents running the show publicly. Guide privately; let the athlete lead.
Top 10 Actions to “Get in the Game” (checklist)
Publish a killer 90-second highlight (best plays first) + 1–2 full games; 1 clean link.
Lock academics: Core GPA plan, eligibility registration, transcript ready.
Verify key measurables (laser 40/shuttle/vert, position metrics).
Target 30–60 programs across levels; sort by fit; build the contact sheet.
Send first outreach wave (custom subject lines, short emails, links).
Schedule the right camps (where your schools will evaluate you).
Follow up every 4–6 weeks with real updates; 24–48h thanks after visits/camps.
Clean your socials (pin highlight, keep it professional, show work ethic).
Stack aid: ask admissions about academic/need grants early; calculate net cost.
Own your development: in-season production, off-season speed/strength plan, position skills on film.
Simple Timeline (adapt, don’t panic)
Grade 9–10: Strength/speed foundation; varsity snaps if possible; first highlight; start the school list; improve GPA.
Sophomore spring/summer: Verified times, position refinement; first targeted emails; pick camps with your schools.
Junior fall/winter: New mid-season film; tighten list; multiple follow-ups; unofficial visits where invited.
Senior year: In-season production; confirm fit/finances; sign or finalize JUCO/NAIA/D3 plans and housing/aid.
Rules and contact periods change—always check the current NCAA/NAIA calendars and follow school-specific instructions.
Tools you can copy today
1️⃣ Outreach Tracker (Sample)
School | Level | Coach | Phone | Sent (Y/N) | Reply | Last Touch | Next Action | Notes | Aid Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
State University | DII | Coach Smith | 555-123-4567 | Y | Y | 02/10/25 | Send updated highlight link | Likes physical style; wants GPA | Athletic + Academic | |
Regional College | NAIA | Coach Johnson | 555-234-5678 | Y | N | 01/15/25 | Follow up with spring stats | Looking for RB depth | Athletic | |
Metro Tech | DIII | Coach Lee | 555-345-6789 | N | N | — | Send intro email + film | Strong engineering program | Academic |
2️⃣ Highlight Checklist (Sample)
Item | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
10–15 best plays first | ✅ | Opened with breakaway TD and big tackle |
IDs on screen (name/number/position) | ✅ | Name + position displayed on first clip |
Arrows/circles used sparingly | ✅ | Only used on 3 plays for clarity |
Clear camera angles | ⚠️ | One game has sideline obstruction |
Game cut-ups linked | ✅ | Linked 2 full games in description |
3️⃣ Metrics to Track (Sample)
Date | Height | Weight | 10-yd Split | 40 yd | Shuttle | Vertical | Bench | Squat | Power Clean | Position Drill Video Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
02/01/25 | 6’0” | 185 lb | 1.67 s | 4.58 s | 4.32 s | 32” | 275 lb | 405 lb | 225 lb | |
11/15/24 | 6’0” | 182 lb | 1.70 s | 4.62 s | 4.38 s | 31” | 265 lb | 395 lb | 215 lb | |
08/20/24 | 5’11” | 180 lb | 1.72 s | 4.65 s | 4.40 s | 30” | 255 lb | 385 lb | 205 lb |
Final Word to Parents
There is a path—just fewer freebies. If you help your athlete execute this plan with discipline, honesty, and steady follow-up, coaches will take notice. Focus on fit + film + academics + communication and the right opportunity (and price) will show up.
For the full path, see our Football Scholarship Playbook. This guide is packed with 57 pages of tips, tricks, insights and all the information you need to ensure you don't make a mistake.
How do you get an NCAA football scholarship if you’re not a 5-star recruit? By targeting the right programs, building coach relationships, presenting undeniable film and academics, and following a disciplined outreach plan—without the common mistakes that stall offers.
The Big Picture (for parents)
Most NCAA rosters are filled with non-blue-chip athletes who executed a smart plan. Scholarships (athletic or stacked with academic/need aid) are earned when a recruit proves three things:
He can help a program win, 2) he’ll be eligible and dependable, and 3) he actually wants them—shown through consistent, professional outreach.
Know Your Paths (pick the lane that fits)
Division I (FBS/FCS): Elite size/speed benchmarks and verified measurables; relentless competition for spots.
Division II: Strong ball with more academic + need-based stack opportunities; realistic landing zone for many.
Division III: No athletic scholarships, but significant academic/need aid; outstanding combo of education + football.
NAIA: Scholarships + flexible recruiting; great for late bloomers who communicate well and qualify academically.
JUCO (2-year): Prove it, develop, get film, then transfer with leverage.
Walk-On (PWO/WO): Not scholarship day one, but a chance to earn one after you show value.
Parent mindset: “Scholarship” can be athletic, academic, or stacked. Look for the total cost of attendance and the best fit, not just the logo.
Your 6-Part Plan (for non-5-star recruits)
1) Get honest about fit
Measurables: Height/weight, 40, shuttle, vertical, bench, position measurables (QB velocity, OL reach, DB 10-yd split).
Position traits: Use current college rosters and all-conference lists to benchmark your position.
2) Make irresistible film
Highlight video (60–90 sec upfront hitters): Best 10–15 plays first, with position-specific skills (e.g., OL hand placement + pad level; WR separation + hands; QB pocket/reads + off-platform throws; DB hips + ball skills; RB vision + contact balance).
Game cut-ups: Include 1–2 full games for coaches who want context.
Fresh links: Host on YouTube/HUDL, keep one clean, updated link.
3) Build a targeted school list (30–60 programs)
Layer by level: Stretch (5–10), realistic (20–30), safety (10–15) across DI/FCS, DII, DIII, NAIA.
Filter for fit: Scheme, depth chart by class, geography, academics (major), roster needs.
Track it: Spreadsheet with Coach Name, Role, Email, Phone, Last Touch, Next Action, Notes.
4) Pro coach outreach (and relentless follow-up)
Email subject lines: “2026 WR | 6’0” 185 | 4.58 | 3.6 GPA | 10-game film”
First email (90–150 words): Who you are, measurables + academics, link to highlight + full games, 1-sentence why their program, ask for next steps.
Cadence: Initial email → 7–10 days later a brief nudge → every 4–6 weeks with a real update (new film, verified time, award, camp dates).
After camps/visits: Thank-you email within 24–48 hours with what you learned and what you’ll improve.
5) Pick exposure that actually moves the needle
Camps where the target staff will evaluate you (college camps over random showcases).
Combines with verified times (if you’re fast—if not, train first).
In-season production: Coaches love consistent game film more than one great combine day.
6) Win the academic game
Core GPA matters. It opens academic money and signals maturity.
Eligibility Center & transcripts squared away early.
Test strategy (if applicable) + great teacher references = stackable aid.
Coach Contact & Follow-Up (do this right)
Email template (short & professional):
Subject: 2026 RB | 5’10” 195 | 4.55 | 3.7 GPA | Mid-Season Film
Coach ___,
I’m ___, a 2026 RB from ___ HS. Current measurables: 5’10” 195, 4.55 (laser), 295 bench, 425 squat; 7 games: 762 rush yds, 10 TD, 9.1 YPC; GPA 3.7 (AP Calc).
I love how your offense uses zone + gap schemes and features backs in pass pro—fits my strengths.
Highlight (90s): [link] • 2 full games: [link], [link] • Unofficial transcript: [link]
Would you like my staff to share verified combine numbers and spring schedule?
Thank you for your time.
Name | Cell | HUDL/YouTube | Twitter/IG (clean)
Follow-up playbook:
Keep receipts: Log every touch.
Deliver value: New film, verified times, updated GPA, team captaincy, camp dates.
Be coachable: If a coach asks for a skill clip, send it within 48 hours.
Grades slipping? Communicate plan + turnaround date.
Mistakes That Kill Offers (avoid these)
Spray-and-pray emails with no fit rationale.
Old or sloppy film (burying best plays, shaky camera, no context).
Ignoring academics (kills stackable aid + eligibility).
Chasing logos instead of opportunity/fit.
Inconsistent communication (ghosting or spamming).
Unverified or inflated measurables.
Toxic social feeds (language, attitudes, questionable reposts).
Wrong camps (no target coaches present).
No tracker (you forget who asked for what).
Parents running the show publicly. Guide privately; let the athlete lead.
Top 10 Actions to “Get in the Game” (checklist)
Publish a killer 90-second highlight (best plays first) + 1–2 full games; 1 clean link.
Lock academics: Core GPA plan, eligibility registration, transcript ready.
Verify key measurables (laser 40/shuttle/vert, position metrics).
Target 30–60 programs across levels; sort by fit; build the contact sheet.
Send first outreach wave (custom subject lines, short emails, links).
Schedule the right camps (where your schools will evaluate you).
Follow up every 4–6 weeks with real updates; 24–48h thanks after visits/camps.
Clean your socials (pin highlight, keep it professional, show work ethic).
Stack aid: ask admissions about academic/need grants early; calculate net cost.
Own your development: in-season production, off-season speed/strength plan, position skills on film.
Simple Timeline (adapt, don’t panic)
Grade 9–10: Strength/speed foundation; varsity snaps if possible; first highlight; start the school list; improve GPA.
Sophomore spring/summer: Verified times, position refinement; first targeted emails; pick camps with your schools.
Junior fall/winter: New mid-season film; tighten list; multiple follow-ups; unofficial visits where invited.
Senior year: In-season production; confirm fit/finances; sign or finalize JUCO/NAIA/D3 plans and housing/aid.
Rules and contact periods change—always check the current NCAA/NAIA calendars and follow school-specific instructions.
Tools you can copy today
1️⃣ Outreach Tracker (Sample)
School | Level | Coach | Phone | Sent (Y/N) | Reply | Last Touch | Next Action | Notes | Aid Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
State University | DII | Coach Smith | 555-123-4567 | Y | Y | 02/10/25 | Send updated highlight link | Likes physical style; wants GPA | Athletic + Academic | |
Regional College | NAIA | Coach Johnson | 555-234-5678 | Y | N | 01/15/25 | Follow up with spring stats | Looking for RB depth | Athletic | |
Metro Tech | DIII | Coach Lee | 555-345-6789 | N | N | — | Send intro email + film | Strong engineering program | Academic |
2️⃣ Highlight Checklist (Sample)
Item | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
10–15 best plays first | ✅ | Opened with breakaway TD and big tackle |
IDs on screen (name/number/position) | ✅ | Name + position displayed on first clip |
Arrows/circles used sparingly | ✅ | Only used on 3 plays for clarity |
Clear camera angles | ⚠️ | One game has sideline obstruction |
Game cut-ups linked | ✅ | Linked 2 full games in description |
3️⃣ Metrics to Track (Sample)
Date | Height | Weight | 10-yd Split | 40 yd | Shuttle | Vertical | Bench | Squat | Power Clean | Position Drill Video Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
02/01/25 | 6’0” | 185 lb | 1.67 s | 4.58 s | 4.32 s | 32” | 275 lb | 405 lb | 225 lb | |
11/15/24 | 6’0” | 182 lb | 1.70 s | 4.62 s | 4.38 s | 31” | 265 lb | 395 lb | 215 lb | |
08/20/24 | 5’11” | 180 lb | 1.72 s | 4.65 s | 4.40 s | 30” | 255 lb | 385 lb | 205 lb |
Final Word to Parents
There is a path—just fewer freebies. If you help your athlete execute this plan with discipline, honesty, and steady follow-up, coaches will take notice. Focus on fit + film + academics + communication and the right opportunity (and price) will show up.
For the full path, see our Football Scholarship Playbook. This guide is packed with 57 pages of tips, tricks, insights and all the information you need to ensure you don't make a mistake.
How do you get an NCAA football scholarship if you’re not a 5-star recruit? By targeting the right programs, building coach relationships, presenting undeniable film and academics, and following a disciplined outreach plan—without the common mistakes that stall offers.
The Big Picture (for parents)
Most NCAA rosters are filled with non-blue-chip athletes who executed a smart plan. Scholarships (athletic or stacked with academic/need aid) are earned when a recruit proves three things:
He can help a program win, 2) he’ll be eligible and dependable, and 3) he actually wants them—shown through consistent, professional outreach.
Know Your Paths (pick the lane that fits)
Division I (FBS/FCS): Elite size/speed benchmarks and verified measurables; relentless competition for spots.
Division II: Strong ball with more academic + need-based stack opportunities; realistic landing zone for many.
Division III: No athletic scholarships, but significant academic/need aid; outstanding combo of education + football.
NAIA: Scholarships + flexible recruiting; great for late bloomers who communicate well and qualify academically.
JUCO (2-year): Prove it, develop, get film, then transfer with leverage.
Walk-On (PWO/WO): Not scholarship day one, but a chance to earn one after you show value.
Parent mindset: “Scholarship” can be athletic, academic, or stacked. Look for the total cost of attendance and the best fit, not just the logo.
Your 6-Part Plan (for non-5-star recruits)
1) Get honest about fit
Measurables: Height/weight, 40, shuttle, vertical, bench, position measurables (QB velocity, OL reach, DB 10-yd split).
Position traits: Use current college rosters and all-conference lists to benchmark your position.
2) Make irresistible film
Highlight video (60–90 sec upfront hitters): Best 10–15 plays first, with position-specific skills (e.g., OL hand placement + pad level; WR separation + hands; QB pocket/reads + off-platform throws; DB hips + ball skills; RB vision + contact balance).
Game cut-ups: Include 1–2 full games for coaches who want context.
Fresh links: Host on YouTube/HUDL, keep one clean, updated link.
3) Build a targeted school list (30–60 programs)
Layer by level: Stretch (5–10), realistic (20–30), safety (10–15) across DI/FCS, DII, DIII, NAIA.
Filter for fit: Scheme, depth chart by class, geography, academics (major), roster needs.
Track it: Spreadsheet with Coach Name, Role, Email, Phone, Last Touch, Next Action, Notes.
4) Pro coach outreach (and relentless follow-up)
Email subject lines: “2026 WR | 6’0” 185 | 4.58 | 3.6 GPA | 10-game film”
First email (90–150 words): Who you are, measurables + academics, link to highlight + full games, 1-sentence why their program, ask for next steps.
Cadence: Initial email → 7–10 days later a brief nudge → every 4–6 weeks with a real update (new film, verified time, award, camp dates).
After camps/visits: Thank-you email within 24–48 hours with what you learned and what you’ll improve.
5) Pick exposure that actually moves the needle
Camps where the target staff will evaluate you (college camps over random showcases).
Combines with verified times (if you’re fast—if not, train first).
In-season production: Coaches love consistent game film more than one great combine day.
6) Win the academic game
Core GPA matters. It opens academic money and signals maturity.
Eligibility Center & transcripts squared away early.
Test strategy (if applicable) + great teacher references = stackable aid.
Coach Contact & Follow-Up (do this right)
Email template (short & professional):
Subject: 2026 RB | 5’10” 195 | 4.55 | 3.7 GPA | Mid-Season Film
Coach ___,
I’m ___, a 2026 RB from ___ HS. Current measurables: 5’10” 195, 4.55 (laser), 295 bench, 425 squat; 7 games: 762 rush yds, 10 TD, 9.1 YPC; GPA 3.7 (AP Calc).
I love how your offense uses zone + gap schemes and features backs in pass pro—fits my strengths.
Highlight (90s): [link] • 2 full games: [link], [link] • Unofficial transcript: [link]
Would you like my staff to share verified combine numbers and spring schedule?
Thank you for your time.
Name | Cell | HUDL/YouTube | Twitter/IG (clean)
Follow-up playbook:
Keep receipts: Log every touch.
Deliver value: New film, verified times, updated GPA, team captaincy, camp dates.
Be coachable: If a coach asks for a skill clip, send it within 48 hours.
Grades slipping? Communicate plan + turnaround date.
Mistakes That Kill Offers (avoid these)
Spray-and-pray emails with no fit rationale.
Old or sloppy film (burying best plays, shaky camera, no context).
Ignoring academics (kills stackable aid + eligibility).
Chasing logos instead of opportunity/fit.
Inconsistent communication (ghosting or spamming).
Unverified or inflated measurables.
Toxic social feeds (language, attitudes, questionable reposts).
Wrong camps (no target coaches present).
No tracker (you forget who asked for what).
Parents running the show publicly. Guide privately; let the athlete lead.
Top 10 Actions to “Get in the Game” (checklist)
Publish a killer 90-second highlight (best plays first) + 1–2 full games; 1 clean link.
Lock academics: Core GPA plan, eligibility registration, transcript ready.
Verify key measurables (laser 40/shuttle/vert, position metrics).
Target 30–60 programs across levels; sort by fit; build the contact sheet.
Send first outreach wave (custom subject lines, short emails, links).
Schedule the right camps (where your schools will evaluate you).
Follow up every 4–6 weeks with real updates; 24–48h thanks after visits/camps.
Clean your socials (pin highlight, keep it professional, show work ethic).
Stack aid: ask admissions about academic/need grants early; calculate net cost.
Own your development: in-season production, off-season speed/strength plan, position skills on film.
Simple Timeline (adapt, don’t panic)
Grade 9–10: Strength/speed foundation; varsity snaps if possible; first highlight; start the school list; improve GPA.
Sophomore spring/summer: Verified times, position refinement; first targeted emails; pick camps with your schools.
Junior fall/winter: New mid-season film; tighten list; multiple follow-ups; unofficial visits where invited.
Senior year: In-season production; confirm fit/finances; sign or finalize JUCO/NAIA/D3 plans and housing/aid.
Rules and contact periods change—always check the current NCAA/NAIA calendars and follow school-specific instructions.
Tools you can copy today
1️⃣ Outreach Tracker (Sample)
School | Level | Coach | Phone | Sent (Y/N) | Reply | Last Touch | Next Action | Notes | Aid Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
State University | DII | Coach Smith | 555-123-4567 | Y | Y | 02/10/25 | Send updated highlight link | Likes physical style; wants GPA | Athletic + Academic | |
Regional College | NAIA | Coach Johnson | 555-234-5678 | Y | N | 01/15/25 | Follow up with spring stats | Looking for RB depth | Athletic | |
Metro Tech | DIII | Coach Lee | 555-345-6789 | N | N | — | Send intro email + film | Strong engineering program | Academic |
2️⃣ Highlight Checklist (Sample)
Item | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
10–15 best plays first | ✅ | Opened with breakaway TD and big tackle |
IDs on screen (name/number/position) | ✅ | Name + position displayed on first clip |
Arrows/circles used sparingly | ✅ | Only used on 3 plays for clarity |
Clear camera angles | ⚠️ | One game has sideline obstruction |
Game cut-ups linked | ✅ | Linked 2 full games in description |
3️⃣ Metrics to Track (Sample)
Date | Height | Weight | 10-yd Split | 40 yd | Shuttle | Vertical | Bench | Squat | Power Clean | Position Drill Video Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
02/01/25 | 6’0” | 185 lb | 1.67 s | 4.58 s | 4.32 s | 32” | 275 lb | 405 lb | 225 lb | |
11/15/24 | 6’0” | 182 lb | 1.70 s | 4.62 s | 4.38 s | 31” | 265 lb | 395 lb | 215 lb | |
08/20/24 | 5’11” | 180 lb | 1.72 s | 4.65 s | 4.40 s | 30” | 255 lb | 385 lb | 205 lb |
Final Word to Parents
There is a path—just fewer freebies. If you help your athlete execute this plan with discipline, honesty, and steady follow-up, coaches will take notice. Focus on fit + film + academics + communication and the right opportunity (and price) will show up.
For the full path, see our Football Scholarship Playbook. This guide is packed with 57 pages of tips, tricks, insights and all the information you need to ensure you don't make a mistake.