For small-school athletes, especially those from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), the 2025 NFL Draft was another impressive showing. Compared to the 12 draftees from the previous year, 15 FCS players were chosen overall across the seven rounds. NFL evaluators continue to look far and wide for impact players outside of the conventional powerhouse programs, as evidenced by their selections.
The Power Five institutions dominate the headlines. Still, FCS players continue to show they are worthy of a chance at the next level. Some of this year’s crop have names that have the potential to be NFL hidden treasures.
Full List of FCS Prospects Drafted in 2025: Small-School Talent Making NFL Moves
Grey Zabel of North Dakota State, who became the first FCS player taken in the first round since 2022, led the group. Citing his flexibility and toughness, the Seattle Seahawks selected the 6-foot-6, 310-pound offensive lineman with the 18th overall pick. Zabel was one of the most sought-after small-school recruits in recent years due to his versatility as an offensive lineman.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ selection of David Walker, an edge rusher from Central Arkansas, in the fourth round was another noteworthy event. Walker, the Buck Buchanan Award winner for FCS football’s finest defensive player, contributes explosiveness and a strong motor to Tampa Bay’s aggressive defensive strategy.
Late in the draft, the Las Vegas Raiders took two quarterbacks, Tommy Mellott of Montana State and Cam Miller of North Dakota State, demonstrating their willingness to take FCS talent. It’s interesting to note that Mellott will play wide receiver in the professional ranks, providing the Raiders with a versatile athlete who can influence the game in several ways.
In the meantime, Alabama A&M’s Carson Vinson made history by becoming the only HBCU athlete selected this year. The Baltimore Ravens, who frequently select developmental offensive linemen from smaller colleges, selected Vinson in the fifth round.
Here’s the full list of FCS players selected:
- Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State
Seattle Seahawks (1st Round, 18th Overall) - Charles Grant, OL, William & Mary
Las Vegas Raiders (3rd Round, 99th Overall) - David Walker, EDGE, Central Arkansas
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4th Round, 121st Overall) - Carson Vinson, OL, Alabama A&M
Baltimore Ravens (5th Round, 141st Overall) - Jackson Slater, OL, Sacramento State
Tennessee Titans (5th Round, 146th Overall) - Tommy Mellott, QB/WR, Montana State
Las Vegas Raiders (6th Round, 213th Overall) - Cam Miller, QB, North Dakota State
Las Vegas Raiders (6th Round, 215th Overall)
With the 2025 draft now behind them, these small-school standouts will look to prove that they belong in the NFL and can thrive at the highest level. Their journeys will inspire future FCS stars aiming to reach their professional dreams.
KEEP READING: Who Is Carson Vinson? Meet the Only HBCU Player Selected in the 2025 NFL Draft
These selections demonstrate that NFL teams are increasingly willing to invest in players from outside the traditional major conferences, whether they are dynamic pass rushers, reliable offensive linemen, or versatile athletes willing to switch positions.
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