FCS Showcase: Elevating FCS Prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft
The NCAA, in partnership with the American Football Coaches Association and the National Football League, will host an FCS Showcase during the 2026 Division I FCS championship in Nashville, Tennessee, in January. This event aims to provide a top evaluation platform for approximately 50 Football Championship Subdivision prospects eligible for the 2026 NFL draft. Invited players will receive a comprehensive evaluation by NFL team scouting staffs, taking advantage of the national spotlight of the championship. The championship game is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 5, at Vanderbilt's FirstBank Stadium and will be broadcast on ESPN.
"This groundbreaking event offers FCS student-athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills and engage with NFL scouts and staff," said Ty Halpin, NCAA director of championships. "It adds excitement to FCS championship weekend, culminating in a prime-time kickoff to crown our national champion in Nashville."
This initiative demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the NCAA, AFCA, and NFL to enhance exposure and opportunities for FCS student-athletes. The key benefits include early evaluation access for student-athletes, increased visibility and exposure for prospects before the traditional draft cycle, and alignment across governing bodies to support football development and player readiness.
Craig Bohl, AFCA executive director, shared his perspective, "Having coached at the FCS level, I've witnessed the talent that exists in that division. The AFCA is proud to collaborate with the NCAA and NFL Football Operations to organize the FCS Showcase. This partnership aims to ensure that every talented player has the chance to be evaluated on a significant platform."
Each NFL club has been requested to nominate a list of 10-15 top prospects they wish to evaluate at the event. Only players automatically eligible for the 2026 NFL draft can attend; underclassmen will not be considered.
Roman Oben, NFL vice president of football development, emphasized, "The FCS Showcase is another crucial step in our joint commitment to player development and opportunity. By introducing this platform during championship weekend, we are guaranteeing that deserving FCS student-athletes have access to the same visibility, evaluation, and support as their counterparts from larger programs."
Student-athletes invited to the event will undergo interviews with NFL club representatives on Jan. 4. They will participate in limited on-field drills on the morning of Jan. 5, and attendees will have the opportunity to watch the championship game that evening.