For the 2021 NFL Draft, 128 underclassmen gave up their remaining eligibility and declared. While 24 were selected in the first round, most made a blind leap to the NFL without much assurance.
Ultimately, 28 went undrafted, including notable names such as wide receiver Sage Surratt, running back Jaret Patterson and safety Ar’Darius Washington. The median underclassman was selected with the No. 106 overall pick in the fourth round — well outside the range for guaranteed contracts or roster spots. At the time, this was a calculated gamble. The draft was the only path to a payday.
Months later, the name, image and likeness era began, allowing players to earn compensation while remaining in college. That move changed the equation for underclassmen looking to enter the draft, with major ripple effects on the later rounds.
Just three years later, only 58 underclassmen entered the draft, 70 fewer than in 2021. Thirty-seven were selected on Day 3 in 2021, compared to just 15 in 2024. Perhaps most strikingly, the number of undrafted underclassmen fell from 28 to five. The median draft position for underclassmen rose to No. 61 in 2024. Nearly two-thirds of underclassmen who declared in 2024 were selected in the first three rounds.
Historically, players have gone to court for the right to enter the draft early. Now, they’re suing for the right to stay in college longer.
Consider quarterback Cam Ward. He initially declared for the draft, but returned to college after receiving an NIL deal from Miami. He went on to finish as a Heisman Trophy finalist and is now the presumptive No. 1 overall pick.
Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson made a similar decision, turning down the draft last season to stay in school. He rushed for 1,000 yards on 7.1…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/2025-nfl-draft-looking-for-late-round-gems-thanks-to-nil-many-of-them-are-still-in-college/
Author : Shehan Jeyarajah
Publish date : 2025-04-22 18:41:00
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