Although the FCS playoffs may not receive as much attention as the expanded College Football Playoff, they are still must-watch television, largely thanks to these 2025 NFL Draft prospects.
Idaho vs. Montana State NFL Draft Prospects
- Keyshawn James-Newby, EDGE, Idaho (Rounds 6-7)
- Tommy McCormick, S, Idaho (Round 7-UDFA)
- K.J. Trujillo, CB, Idaho (UDFA)
- Tommy Mellott, QB, Montana State (Round 7-PFA)
- Ty McCullouch, WR, Montana State (PFA)
- Marcus Wehr, OL, Montana State (Rounds 6-7)
- Brody Grebe, EDGE, Montana State (Round 7-PFA)
- McCade O’Reilly, LB, Montana State (UDFA)
- Simeon Woodard, CB, Montana State (UDFA)
- Miles Jackson, CB, Montana State (UDFA)
- Rylan Ortt, DB, Montana State (UDFA)
- Brendan Hall, P, Montana State (Round 7-PFA)
Keyshawn James-Newby’s NFL Draft Projection
Idaho’s program is one of the youngest at the FCS level, resulting in a much smaller potential NFL Draft player pool than the rest of the programs still alive in the playoffs. Nevertheless, the Vandals have one player NFL scouts should be montiering this postseason: EDGE Jeyshawn James-Newby.
KJN has been a relentless force off the edge, tying for the third-most pressures on the season. His technique, long frame, and lethal cross-chop move make him a nightmare for offensive tackles. He’s proven his mettle against top competition, notching two sacks against the Oregon Ducks in Week 1.
Tommy Mellott’s NFL Draft Projection
What hasn’t Tommy Mellott done this season? He’s led the Bobcats to a 12-0 record, the Big Sky Conference championship, and the No. 1 seed in the FCS playoffs. Additionally, he was named the Big Sky’s Offensive Player of the Year and a finalist for the Walter Payton Award.
However, Mellott’s NFL projection is rather low due to his lack of arm talent and run-heavy college offensive scheme. An FCS title win would certainly go a long way toward earning a selection, as most franchises covet proven “winners,” but he has a long road to making a roster as a QB.
Marcus Wehr’s NFL Draft Projection
A large reason for Montana State’s rushing success has been the emergence of Marcus Wehr. Whether at guard or tackle, the 6’4″, 300-pound lineman dominates the man across from him on a down-in, down-out basis.
After beginning his career on the defensive line, Wehr transitioned to the O-line in 2022, starting seven games before an injury cut his season short. He bounced back last year, starting all 12 games at right tackle, earning first-team All-America and All-Big Sky honors.
Unfortunately, the level of competition and a lack of true pass-blocking reps will limit his stock to the Day 3 range at best.
Brody Grebe’s NFL Draft Projection
Brody Grebe put any doubts about his ability to rest last season, earning first-team All-Big Sky and All-American status with 50 tackles, 13 TFLs, 9.5 sacks, and three forced fumbles.
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His relentless motor makes him a force in all phases and led to his vastly improved tackling from 2022 to 2023. Of course, Grebe won’t be nearly as dominant against NFL-level OTs, but he has the mentality and floor to make a roster.
Brendan Hall’s NFL Draft Projection
Yes, a punter! Not just any punter, either, as Brendan Hall is 6’9″ and 235 pounds.
A career in the NBA may have been more lucrative, but Hall has perfected his craft over the years, averaging over 45 yards per punt the last two seasons. His near-four-second hangtime is a plus, and he’s handled collegiate kickoff duties dating back to his time with the SMU Mustangs (2021-22).
Incarnate Word vs. South Dakota State NFL Draft Prospects
- Zach Calzada, QB, Incarnate Word (Round 7-PFA)
- Roy Alexander, WR, Incarnate Word (PFA)
- Marcus Allen, DL, Incarnate Word (UDFA)
- Mason Chambers, S, Incarnate Word (Round 7-PFA)
- Darius Sanders, S, Incarnate Word (PFA)
- Ronald Wilson, S, Incarnate Word (UDFA)
- Mark Gronowski, QB, South Dakota State (Rounds 5-6)
- Amar Johnson, RB, South Dakota State (PFA)
- Evan Beerntsen, OL, South Dakota State (PFA)
- Gus Miller, OL, South Dakota State (PFA)
- Jarod DePriest, DT, South Dakota State (UDFA)
- Adam Bock, LB, South Dakota State (PFA)
- Dalys Beanum, CB, South Dakota State (Round 7-PFA)
- Colby Humphrey, CB, South Dakota State (UDFA)
- Steven Arrell, CB, South Dakota State (UDFA)
- Hunter Dustman, K/P, South Dakota State (PFA)
Zach Calzada’s NFL Draft Projection
A former SEC signal-caller — and a good one at that — Zach Calzada has had no issue lighting up the FCS stage. He first burst onto the collegiate scene as the Texas A&M Aggies starting QB in 2021 before transferring to the Auburn Tigers. A shoulder injury held him out of the entire 2022 season, so he decided to return to the Lone Star State with Incarnate Word.
In the 21 games since then, Zalzada has thrown for 6,084 yards, 53 TDs, and 17 INTs. He’s cut down on his pressure-to-sack and turnover-worthy play rates this season, as he’s taken fewer chances downfield. Regardless, he has the tape to hear his name called in the final round of the draft.
Roy Alexander’s NFL Draft Projection
A major beneficiary of Calzada’s arm has been WR Roy Alexander. After catching just 18 passes for 144 yards and two scores in six frames at UAlbany, Alexander transferred in the offseason, and it was the best decision he could’ve made.
The rocked-up 5’10” and 200-pound pass catcher has hauled in 87 receptions for 1,106 yards and 12 TDs. Alexander has primarily worked in the slot, which does diminish his draft stock sum, but he has the YAC ability and strong hands to, at the very least, earn a camp tryout.
Mark Gronowski’s NFL Draft Projection
As the reigning Walter Payton Award winner, Mark Gronowski is not only the best offensive player in the FCS but also the leader of South Dakota State’s quest for a third consecutive national championship.
In 2023, Gronowski dazzled with 3,058 passing yards and 29 TDs, plus 402 rushing yards and eight more scores.
With a career record of 47-5 and only two FCS losses as a full-time starter, he is poised to become the most accomplished quarterback in division history — just two more wins away from breaking the FCS record for QB victories.
Like Miller, Gronowski doesn’t have the tools to hear his name called early, but his impressive body of work deserves a mid-round selection.
Evan Beerntsen and Gus Miller’s NFL Draft Projection
Unsurprisingly, South Dakota State has a pair of offensive linemen who should follow 2024 draftee Mason McCormick into the NFL. Now, G Evan Beernstsen and C Gus Miller are nowhere near the overall athlete McCormick was, but they are detail-oriented and have been near impenetrable as pass blockers.
Run blocking has been a different story, with their power and upfield speed leaving some to be desired, but both can serve as camp bodies early on.
Adam Bock’s NFL Draft Projection
Adam Bock has been a cornerstone of South Dakota State’s defense, excelling as a five-year starter at middle linebacker with 427 career tackles (33 for loss), 13 sacks, 10 PBUs, and four INTs.
Despite battling injuries (nine missed games), Bock remains one of the most efficient players in program history and should have plenty of suitors as a priority free agent.
Dalys Beanum’s NFL Draft Projection
A steady presence in the secondary, Dalys Beanum has played in every game over the last four seasons, showcasing versatility with 102 tackles and 12 INTs. The Jackrabbits have developed a strong lineage of NFL-caliber corners, including Jordan Brown, Don Gardner (Buccaneers), and DyShawn Gales in recent seasons.
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Beanum’s consistent production, ability to both tackle and cover, and punt return skill set (housed an 88-yard return in 2024) put him on track to follow in their footsteps as the next Jackrabbit DB to make the leap to the pros.
Hunter Dustman’s NFL Draft Projection
Is Hunter Dustman a kicker or a punter? The answer: yes.
- Career punting: 165 attempts, 6,979 yards (42.3 average), 63 inside the 20, 36 of 50+
- Kicking: 49 of 68 (72%), career long of 49 yards
- Kickoffs: 269 attempts, 16,276 yards (60.5 average), 109 touchbacks
UC Davis vs. South Dakota NFL Draft Prospects
- Miles Hastings, QB, UC Davis (UDFA)
- Lan Larison, RB, UC Davis (Rounds 4-5)
- C.J. Hutton, WR, UC Davis (UDFA)
- Chaz Davis, WR, UC Davis (UDFA)
- Trent Tompkins, WR, UC Davis (UDFA)
- Josh Gale, TE, UC Davis (PFA)
- Zach Kennedy, DL, UC Davis (UDFA)
- Kavir Bains, DB, UC Davis (UDFA)
- Travis Theis, RB, South Dakota (PFA)
- Carter Bell, WR, South Dakota (PFA)
- JJ Galbreath, TE, South Dakota (UDFA)
- Joey Lombard, OL, South Dakota (PFA)
- Blake Holden, DT, South Dakota (UDFA)
- Nick Gaes, DL, South Dakota (PFA)
- Nate Ewell, LB, South Dakota (UDFA)
- Dennis Shorter, DB, South Dakota (PFA)
- Mike Reid, CB, South Dakota (Round 7-PFA)
Miles Hastings’ NFL Draft Projection
Only UC Davis QB to throw for 4,000+ yards in a season: Miles Hastings (4,148 in 2024).
Hastings has also completed 70.2% of his passes for 35 TDs and only eight INTs, so why does he have a UDFA projection? Well, nearly half of that production has come after that catch, with Hastings’ average depth of target sitting at 8.0.
Not only does he not push the ball downfield often, but he adds little to the ground game, doesn’t feel pressure well, and stands at just 6’1″ and 205 pounds. Thus, Hastings is likely the case of a prolific collegiate passer who doesn’t stick around for long in the league.
Lan Larison’s NFL Draft Projection
Lan Larison stands out as the ultimate FCS utility player, excelling as UC Davis’ top running back and receiver while also contributing at Wildcat QB and as a kick returner earlier in his career.
Last season, he led all college running backs in rushing yards per game, and this year, he’s pacing the FCS in receiving yards per game. Larison’s versatility extends to the field, where he combines patience as an inside runner with explosive playmaking on the perimeter.
Beyond his reliability as a pass blocker and third-down back, Larison thrives as a deep threat, running WR-esque routes and separating from DBs on fades and wheel routes. His ability to track the ball over his shoulder and make contested catches elevates his NFL appeal.
Teams will undoubtedly value Larison’s multi-faceted skill set, which makes him a potential game-changer as a complementary offensive weapon at the next level.
Travis Theis’ NFL Draft Projection
At 5’11” and 215 pounds, Travis Theis is a bowling ball in the backfield. He tied the program’s career rushing TD record with 37 after rumbling for three against Tarleton State and should have no issue generating one more, considering he has 16 on the year.
However, Theis has split the rushing workload with redshirt sophomore Charlies Pierre Jr., who has looked far more explosive on his carries. That’s likely Theis’ future in the NFL — looking comparatively less electric next to others around him. But his 10 fumbles on over 800 touches and solid pass-pro ability should help him earn looks during training camp.
Carter Bell’s NFL Draft Projection
South Dakota’s offense is predicated on the run, limiting WR Carter Bell’s ability to exhibit his talents. Yet, he’s enjoyed quite the six-year career, racking up a 186-2,849-19 receiving line across 56 games.
MORE: 2025 NFL Draft Underclassmen Tracker
Bell has thrived inside, outside, underneath, and over the top, which is the type of versatility coaches covet during the spring and summer. But his skill set doesn’t end there, as Bell also comes equipped with a 47-486-2 punt return line, boosting his staying power in the NFL.
Mercer vs. North Dakota NFL Draft Prospects
- Dwayne McGee, RB, Mercer (UDFA)
- Kelin Parsons, WR, Mercer (UDFA)
- Riley Adcock, OL, Mercer (UDFA)
- Ken Standley, LB, Mercer (UDFA)
- Isaac Dowling, LB, Mercer (UDFA)
- Marques Thomas, LB, Mercer (UDFA)
- TJ Moore, CB, Mercer (Round 7-PFA)
- Myles Redding, S, Mercer (PFA)
- Cam Miller, QB, North Dakota State (Rounds 6-7)
- Joe Stoffel, TE, North Dakota State (PFA)
- Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State (Rounds 4-5)
- Mason Miller, OL, North Dakota State (PFA)
- Jake Rock, OL, North Dakota State (UDFA)
- Eli Mostaert, DT, North Dakota State (Round 7-PFA)
- Griffin Crosa, K, North Dakota State (PFA)
TJ Moore and Myles Redding’s NFL Draft Projection
Mercer isn’t just home to the FCS interception leader — it’s home to the top two. CB TJ Moore and safety Myles Redding have seven picks apiece this season, showcasing their obvious ball skills.
Moore’s has a higher ceiling as an outside corner with plenty of tape to parse through. Teams have looked his way 97 times in 2024, but Moore has made them pay for it, allowing a 47.7 passer rating.
While Redding has played 100+ snaps in the slot, box, and deep safety, Mercer has primarily deployed him around the second level this season. He has tape in the deep third from the previous two years, which should ease potential concerns.
Cam Miller’s NFL Draft Projection
A seasoned starter with 53 games under his belt since the 2021 spring playoffs, Cam Miller boasts a 45-11 record. He ranks first in Bison history with 9,084 career passing yards and is second with 74 passing touchdowns, but he’s also a threat on the ground with 2,023 rushing yards and 44 scores.
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Miller isn’t a game manager anymore; he’s a field general. This season, he raised his completion rate to 73.7% while averaging 9.2 yards per attempt and tossing 26 TDs to just two INTs. Although he won’t wow teams with his raw arm talent, Miller has the experience, résumé, and tape to earn late-round consideration.
Grey Zabel’s NFL Draft Projection
North Dakota State’s Grey Zabel has been dominant at left tackle this season, allowing just six pressures on 365 pass-blocking snaps while showcasing improved run blocking. His anchor is a standout trait, blending surprising play strength at 305 pounds with near-flawless technique to neutralize bull rushes and redirect power.
Zabel’s athleticism and versatility shine in the run game, where he delivers explosive pulls, precise blocks in zone schemes, and a highlight reel of pancake finishes. Though he’s played every position on the line except center, his arm length and occasional struggles against edge speed suggest he’s best suited as a guard at the next level. Yet, a strong showing at the Senior Bowl could alter that perception.
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