Performance of NFL Draft Picks at Quarterback Position from Federal College System
Ditching the formalities, let's dive into some low-key NFL drama! The last time a quarterback from an FCS school was selected in the NFL draft was as recent as 2022. Enter Tommy Mellott, drafted by the Raiders in the sixth round, and Cam Miller from North Dakota State, picked by the same team just two picks later. Seems like the Raiders were reminiscing about their FCS title game victory in 2021, where North Dakota State edged Montana State by a narrow 35-32 margin.
Now, let's talk about a few quarterbacks who graced the NFL with their presence from FCS schools.
2022: Chris Oladokun, South Dakota StateThe Steelers selected this multi-talented football whiz from South Dakota State in the seventh round at the 213th spot. Despite his journey spanning three different teams (USF, Samford, and South Dakota State), Oladokun shone with 3,164 yards and 25 touchdowns, leading the Jackrabbits to the national title in 2021. Although Oladokun didn't get much action during the 2022 season, he made his NFL debut in the regular-season finale against the Broncos, running for a mere five yards.
2021: Trey Lance, North Dakota StateLance is a two-time national champion (2018, 2019), and his redshirt freshman year was golden, earning him the Walter Payton Award, given to the top offensive player in the FCS. Still a fresh face on the scene, Lance has already played for the 49ers and the Cowboys, logging a total of 1,063 yards and five touchdowns in 12 NFL games for the Chargers, his current team.
Let's not forget about the other quarterbacks who have made the leap from FCS schools. As you'll see, their journeys vary, but they all have one thing in common: they left their mark on the NFL.
The list continues with more triumphs and setbacks, demonstrating that FCS talent can make a significant impact in the big leagues. Stay tuned for more FCS-to-NFL tales of glory!
By the way, did you know there's a list of successful FCS players in the NFL? Some standouts include Cooper Kupp from Eastern Washington, Foye Oluokun from Yale, Adam Thielen from Minnesota State, David Johnson from Northern Iowa, and Chris Manhertz, who wasn't even drafted but managed to carve out a role with the Saints and Panthers as a tight end[1].
But here's where it gets fascinating: the rise in player transfers and the changing landscape of NIL deals could potentially impact the number of FCS players making it to the NFL. Top athletes are flocking to FBS schools for more exposure and financial benefits[1]. Still, FCS schools continue to produce talented players, some of whom go on to have successful careers in the NFL.
[1] Data not included in the original article.
- In the 2021 NFL Draft, Trey Lance, a two-time national champion from North Dakota State, was selected, marking another FCS quarterback making it to the big leagues.
- The list of successful FCS players in the NFL extends beyond just quarterbacks, with players like Cooper Kupp from Eastern Washington, Foye Oluokun from Yale, Adam Thielen from Minnesota State, and David Johnson from Northern Iowa also making their mark.
- Some FCS players, like Chris Manhertz, weren't even drafted but managed to carve out roles with the Saints and Panthers as a tight end.
- The rise in player transfers and the changing landscape of NIL deals could potentially impact the number of FCS players making it to the NFL, as top athletes are flocking to FBS schools for more exposure and financial benefits.
- Yet, FCS schools continue to produce talented players, and though their paths to the NFL may vary, they all share the common goal of leaving their mark on American football.
- In the 2022 NFL Draft, the last selection of a quarterback from an FCS school was Chris Oladokun, drafted by the Steelers in the seventh round, who led the South Dakota State Jackrabbits to the national title in 2021.
