Didn’t get a scholarship offer? That doesn’t mean your football career is over.
Every year, determined athletes prove their worth by earning a spot through a college football walk-on tryout — and many go on to become starters, captains, and even NFL prospects. If you’re willing to grind, learn, and prove yourself, you absolutely can walk on.
This blog breaks down how to walk on to a college football team, the steps you need to take, and how to increase your odds of success.
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✅ Understand the Two Types of Walk-On Opportunities
Not all walk-ons are treated the same — here’s the difference:
✅ Preferred Walk-On (PWO): You’re invited to join the team with no guaranteed scholarship, but you have a spot
✅ Tryout Walk-On: You attend an open tryout and compete for a spot on the roster
📌 Tip: If you can secure a preferred walk-on spot, you’ll avoid the risk of getting cut before the season starts — but either path requires effort and preparation.
✅ How to Find Walk-On Opportunities
These opportunities aren’t always public — you have to know where to look and who to contact.
✅ Email the recruiting coordinator or position coach to ask about walk-on options
✅ Check College Football Openings for programs still filling out their roster
✅ Look at lower-division and smaller-school programs where depth is still needed
📌 Tip: Include your highlight tape, position, GPA, and graduation year when you reach out. Even walk-ons need to show value fast.
✅ What Coaches Look for in Walk-Ons
They’re not expecting you to be perfect — but they are expecting you to hustle.
✅ High-effort, low-drama athletes who contribute on scout team or special teams
✅ Athletes who take practice seriously and bring up the energy level
✅ Players who stay eligible, stay healthy, and stay ready to step in
📌 Tip: Be known for how you prepare and how you compete — coaches always notice the walk-ons who treat it like a full-time job.
✅ Prepare for the Walk-On Tryout
If you’re going the open tryout route, you’ll likely get 1 shot to prove yourself.
✅ Be in peak physical shape — don’t show up undertrained
✅ Know your 40 time, bench, shuttle, and vertical — they will ask
✅ Bring your gear, transcripts, and proof of insurance if required
📌 Tip: Treat the tryout like a job interview. Be early, be respectful, and be locked in from the moment you step on the field.
✅ Make the Most of the Opportunity Once You’re In
Walking on is just the beginning — now it’s time to earn your spot every day.
✅ Be the hardest worker in the room
✅ Learn the playbook faster than anyone else
✅ Ask questions, take feedback, and stay coachable
✅ Be ready when your number is called — and stay humble when it isn’t
📌 Tip: Some of the most respected players in college football started as walk-ons. Your attitude and effort will define your path.
✅ Use College Football Openings to Find Programs That Welcome Walk-Ons
✅ Some programs openly state they are looking for walk-ons
✅ Others keep roster spots open for the right player — especially at the D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO levels
✅ College Football Openings helps you find schools that are actively building their rosters right now
📌 Tip: Reach out even if you don’t see a walk-on listing — coaches are often open to it, especially if you fit a need.
🔥 Final Thoughts
Walking on to a college football team takes guts, commitment, and belief in yourself.
But it’s been done — and you can do it too.
✅ The path may be harder, but the reward is real: a chance to wear the jersey, be part of a brotherhood, and prove you belong.
✅ Don’t wait for permission — show up, stand out, and earn your spot.
👉 Head to College Football Openings today and find programs still recruiting. Whether it’s a scholarship or a walk-on spot, your opportunity is out there — if you’re ready to take it.
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT INFORMATION
Can Walk-Ons Earn a Scholarship?
Absolutely — earning a spot as a walk-on is just the first step. Prove yourself on and off the field, and you can put yourself in line for an athletic scholarship down the road. Coaches regularly reward walk-ons who outwork scholarship athletes, contribute on special teams, or fill a key role during the season.
It’s not an overnight process, but if you keep grinding, stay eligible, and make an impact, that scholarship offer could be yours. Plenty of walk-ons at powerhouse schools have ended up with full rides after relentless effort.
Balancing Football and Academics
Walking on isn’t just a physical grind—it’s a juggling act with your classes, too.
Here’s how to stay on top of both:
- Plan your schedule wisely: Before the semester kicks off, map out practices, lifting sessions, and study blocks so nothing sneaks up on you.
- Communicate early: Let your professors know you’re on the team, especially if games or travel could affect class attendance—they’ll appreciate the heads-up.
- Use every resource: Take advantage of tutoring, study halls, and campus academic centers for athletes (they’re there for a reason).
- Stay disciplined: Treat schoolwork like another training block—knock out assignments early, and never play catch-up.
Tip: The most successful walk-ons are usually the ones who manage their time like pros. Coaches and professors both respect a player who shows up prepared—in the classroom and on the field.
Leverage Connections Within the Team
Building relationships with teammates can open unexpected doors. When you earn the trust and respect of current players, they might be the first to hear about an open spot or a position switch—and they’re often willing to put in a good word for hardworking walk-ons. Players vouching for you can make a difference when roster changes come up or when coaches are filling special teams roles.
Tip: Show up, help others, and be the kind of teammate people root for—your network can become your biggest asset in sticking around and moving up.
Earning a Scholarship as a Walk-On
Just because your name wasn’t called on signing day doesn’t mean the door is closed for good. Coaches often max out their scholarship spots early, especially with the rise of verbal commitments at powerhouse programs. But here’s the secret: scholarships aren’t set in stone.
Plenty of walk-ons have earned scholarships later by:
- Outworking their teammates in practice and the weight room
- Contributing on special teams or backup units when called upon
- Demonstrating relentless improvement, discipline, and leadership on and off the field
Coaches keep an eye on walk-ons who make an impact, stay locked in, and prove they’re indispensable. Scholarships sometimes become available after the first year due to roster changes or outstanding effort—so keep grinding, and remember, your opportunity to earn that award is never truly over.
Why Student-Athletes Should Take the Lead
Coaches want to see initiative from the athlete—not their parents. It signals maturity, a strong work ethic, and genuine interest. When you reach out directly, you’re building a personal connection and showing that you’re prepared to handle the responsibility that comes with being a collegiate athlete.
Think of it this way: if you’re tackling the recruiting process head-on, you’re already proving to the coaching staff that you can communicate, advocate for yourself, and manage key steps—just like you’d need to do on the team. Parents can offer support from the sidelines, but the real impact comes when you take ownership of your own path.
How Scholarship Limits Open Doors for Walk-Ons
Ever wonder why there always seem to be more players on a roster than scholarships to go around? That’s because NCAA Division I and Division II schools have strict scholarship limits for each sport. Take football, for example—coaches might be allowed to hand out a set number of scholarships, but their team rosters are much bigger.
Let’s put it in perspective: in sports like women’s lacrosse, a Division I team has about 35 players, but there are only 12 scholarships to split up. That leaves the majority of spots wide open for non-scholarship athletes, also known as walk-ons. What does that mean for you? There are always more athletes competing than scholarships available—which translates into real opportunities for dedicated walk-ons willing to earn their spot.
Why There Are More Walk-On Spots Than Ever
The recruiting landscape has gotten tougher, no doubt — more athletes, more highlight videos, more competition for those coveted scholarship slots. But here’s the silver lining: all this intensity has actually created more walk-on opportunities than ever.
Why? College teams only get a set number of scholarships — think of it like seats at a packed-out stadium. But the roster is much bigger, especially in sports like football, baseball, and lacrosse. For example, a Division I women’s lacrosse team might only have 12 scholarships to go around, but 35 or more players on the team. That means most athletes on the field aren’t on scholarship at all.
It’s the same across other sports—look at football, where 85 scholarships might fill part of a roster over 110 players. That gap has to be filled by walk-ons: players willing to hustle, prove themselves, and earn their way in.
So while scholarships are tight, the spots available to walk-ons are numerous—and every year, programs need fresh talent to round out their rosters and stay competitive.
How Coaches at Non-Scholarship Programs Support Walk-On Prospects
At some top academic schools—including many in the Ivy League and other elite conferences—athletic scholarships aren’t offered, but that doesn’t mean walk-ons are on their own. Coaches at these institutions often play a pivotal role in helping walk-on hopefuls.
- Financial Aid Guidance: Instead of athletic scholarships, many of these schools offer generous need-based financial aid packages and non-athletic grants. Coaches can help prospects navigate the application process to maximize their eligibility for institutional aid.
- Admissions Support: Coaches frequently advocate for talented walk-ons, working closely with admissions offices. If you’re a good fit both academically and athletically, a coach’s recommendation can carry real weight during the admissions review.
In short, even without traditional athletic scholarships, walk-ons at non-scholarship programs receive meaningful support from coaches—whether it’s navigating financial aid or gaining an extra edge in the admissions process.
Why Researching the Roster and Coaching Staff Won’t Help You Get Recruited
Walking on isn’t just about showing up and competing—it’s about being strategic. Before you ever set foot on the field, contrary to other advice out there, do not waste your time diving into the school’s current roster and coaching staff. Here’s why this extra homework pays off:
- Know Your Competition: By reviewing the roster, you gain nothing but assumptions, you don’t know what’s going on behind the scenes and why would you waste your time and efforts on guessing?
- Spot Opportunities: If you see that there’s a lack of upperclassmen at your position, or that last season’s starter graduated, that doesn’t mean anything – the coach could have already filled that opening.
- Understand Coaching Preferences: Taking note of the position coaches you’d work with. Coaches often have a style or player type they favor—knowing this can help you a little but the best way to go is to find out exactly which coaches are recruiting your position so you can tailor your approach and highlights and not waste your time or theirs. An email or a handshake can make a positive first impression which can separate you from the crowd.
- Stand Out for the Right Reasons: When you show up to tryouts and already know who the coaches are—and even a little about the team dynamics—you look prepared and invested. Coaches notice players who do more than the bare minimum.
Bottom line: Researching the teams and staff who are recruiting your position puts you in the mindset of a contributor, not just a participant in the recruitment game. That’s the first step to getting noticed.
Know the Team — and the Coaches — Before You Step On the Field
Want to give yourself a real edge? Treat your tryout prep with the same intensity as your game film study — but this time, study the team you want to join.
Get to know the coaching staff. Figure out who coaches your position and, if possible, introduce yourself ahead of the tryout. A quick, respectful conversation can make you a familiar name when decisions are made. Even better: showing coaches you’ve done your homework demonstrates initiative and genuine commitment — huge green flags in a walk-on.
Tip: Use team websites, and even local sports news, the more you know, the more confident and prepared you’ll be when your shot arrives.
Know Your Coach: The Secret Edge
If you want to impress at a walk-on tryout, knowing the X’s and O’s isn’t enough—you need to do your homework on the coaching staff.
Every coach runs their program differently. Some love a fast, aggressive style; others want discipline, clock management, and execution above all else. Figuring out your coach’s tendencies helps you tailor your own approach—whether that means out-hustling everyone in practice or showing you can nail down tactical assignments with laser focus.
How does this give you an edge?
- You show up prepared for what that coach values most—maybe that’s mastering special teams, keeping an unshakeable attitude, or never taking a play off.
- You become the player who “just gets it”—adapting your game to fit the system, not fighting against it.
- You stand out when it counts because you’re not just trying to make the team; you’re already working to help win games in the way that coach envisions.
Do your research, watch tape, talk to current players if you can, and pay attention during meetings. Walk-ons who anticipate what the coaches want are always a step ahead.
Prioritize Agility and Explosiveness
It’s not just about bench numbers or brute strength — your ability to move quickly, change direction, and explode off the line will get you noticed.
Coaches want to see functional speed and agility drills in your prep, not just standard weight room work. To really stand out at a walk-on tryout, work these into your regimen:
- Cone Drills: Classic three-cone or “L” drills challenge your footwork and quickness as you cut, plant, and accelerate. Set them up in your backyard, or wherever you have space.
- Ladder Drills: Speed ladders improve high-knee drive, rhythm, and overall quick feet. Focus on in-and-out, icky shuffle, and lateral entry patterns.
- Plyometrics: Add box jumps (using a sturdy 24–36″ box), broad jumps, and explosive step-ups before you hit the weights. Aim for 3–5 sets of short, powerful reps — these build the burst needed for game-changing plays.
- Burpees and Medicine Ball Slams: These compound movements reinforce full-body coordination and power, mimicking the explosive actions of real football situations.
Tip: Consistency beats intensity. Short, focused agility sessions 3–4 times a week will pay off — especially when coaches see your improved acceleration and lateral movement.
Leverage Inside Connections and Match Team Workouts
If you already know players on the team, use that to your advantage. Not only can a current teammate quietly vouch for your work ethic, but syncing your training with theirs can make the leap much smoother if you earn a spot.
Here’s why it works:
- You’ll get a firsthand look at the team’s workout expectations and pace, so you’re not caught off guard.
- Adopting the same training habits as rostered players shows coaches you’re serious about fitting in and willing to put in the same effort.
- Plus, building relationships during these sessions goes a long way toward feeling like part of the program before you even suit up.
Tip: Team up for lifting, conditioning, or even film study—little things like that can help you blend in from day one.
Dial In Your Diet and Nutrition
You’ve worked hard in the weight room—now it’s time to back that up in the kitchen. The right diet can mean the difference between blending in and standing out when it comes time for your tryout.
What does that look like? Start with the basics:
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on lean proteins (chicken, fish, lean beef), complex carbs (brown rice, oats, sweet potatoes), and loads of fruits and veggies to keep your energy high and immune system strong.
- Hydrate: Water isn’t optional. Make it your default beverage to aid recovery and keep your muscles firing.
- Match your intake to your position: If you’re a lineman, you may need more calories to maintain size; if you’re a receiver, lean muscle and speed are your priorities.
Protein is your friend. As a general rule of thumb, aim for about a gram of protein per pound of body weight every day—this fuels muscle growth and aids recovery from those intense practices. Don’t fear healthy fats, either: avocados, nuts, and olive oil help keep your hormones in balance and provide steady energy.
Some diets, like the old-school gallon-of-milk-a-day (GOMAD), are popular because they’re inexpensive and effective—but pick a nutrition plan that fits your goals, your budget, and your stomach.
Bottom line: Having the stamina to finish every drill starts with what you put on your plate. Show up stronger, faster, and ready to go because you took care of business in the kitchen as well as on the field.
How Building Relationships with Current Players Boosts Your Odds
Getting to know athletes already on the roster isn’t just a social move — it can give you a real edge.
- You’ll have an inside connection. If a current player knows your work ethic or skills, they can vouch for you when your name comes up among coaches and staff.
- Train with the team culture. Working out alongside team members helps you adjust to the program’s expectations and intensity — so when you land that shot, you already know what’s needed in the weight room and on the field.
- Get the scoop on roster needs. Teammates usually have the best sense of which positions are thin. If you can fill a gap, you’ll know exactly where to focus your preparation and highlight those abilities at tryouts.
Tip: Building authentic friendships with players isn’t just about networking — it will help you hit the ground running from day one.
Fuel Up Like a College Athlete: Diets and Eating Strategies for Muscle Gain
Lifting hard in the weight room is essential — but what you put on your plate matters just as much if you want to get college football ready.
For most positions, bulking up is part of the process. That means eating with intention so you can build serious strength and size. Here’s what works:
Make Protein Your Foundation:
Aim for at least 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily. Chicken, eggs, lean beef, fish, Greek yogurt, and plant-based proteins should be staples. This gives your muscles the building blocks they need to grow and recover.
Emphasize High-Calorie, Nutrient-Dense Foods:
If you’re undersized for your position, it’s time to get creative. Peanut butter, rice, oats, whole milk, avocado, and nuts are powerhouses for putting on mass without relying on junk.
Consider the GOMAD Approach:
The “Gallon of Milk a Day” (GOMAD) diet is popular for athletes needing to add weight fast, especially linemen. Drinking a gallon of whole milk provides a steady stream of calories, protein (about 128g), and healthy fats. It’s cost-effective, but not for everyone — check with your doctor or trainer first if you have any health concerns.
Balance Your Plate:
Even as you bulk, don’t ignore vegetables, fruits, and hydration. A robust immune system means fewer sick days and more time on the field.
Don’t Fear Fats (the Good Kind):
Healthy fats — think olive oil, nuts, salmon, and avocados — help regulate hormones and support muscle growth. Leave the low-fat diet at home.
Real Talk: Every body is different, and some trial and error is normal. The key is to eat with purpose, stay consistent, and track your progress. If your weight has plateaued, increase your calories a notch. Commit to fueling up right, and you’ll give yourself the best shot at looking and performing the part at tryouts.
Can Walk-Ons Earn Scholarships?
Yes. Walk-ons can play their way into athletic scholarships if they put in the work and stand out on the field and in the weight room. College coaches love rewarding hard-working, high-impact walk-ons—think of guys like Baker Mayfield and J.J. Watt, who both started as walk-ons before earning scholarships (and a ton of hardware).
The road isn’t easy, but if you prove you can contribute at a high level, maintain strong grades, and embody the team culture, you could see that scholarship offer come your way.
Balancing Football and Academics as a Walk-On
Football will take up a big chunk of your schedule, but don’t let your classes take a back seat. Coaches respect players who handle business both on the field and in the classroom.
- Let your professors know about your football commitments early—most are familiar with student-athletes and will appreciate the heads-up about potential conflicts.
- Embrace organization: use planners, Google Calendar, or even old-school sticky notes to map out practices, meetings, study sessions, and downtime.
- Don’t be afraid to use tutoring resources or study groups (there’s no shame in copying Alabama’s best habits).
- Communicate! If you hit a scheduling snag, reach out to professors before a problem snowballs.
- Remember: Eligibility hinges on academics. Stay ahead so you’re not sprinting to catch up at semester’s end.
Juggling college football and coursework is tough—but it’s doable, and mastering it builds the same discipline coaches notice on the field.
The Value of Building Relationships as a Walk-On
Being a walk-on isn’t just about how you perform on the field—who you know can matter just as much. Developing genuine connections with your teammates can open unexpected doors, whether it’s snagging an opportunity in the depth chart or getting the inside scoop on how the team operates day to day.
- Make an effort to get to know guys at your position
- Look for mentors among seasoned players
- Support others and you’ll find support in return
And remember, the locker room is just as important as the practice field. That tight network could help you step up when a slot opens—or simply help you find your footing when things get tough.
What You Gain from the Walk-On Experience
Walking on isn’t just about chasing a scholarship — it’s about the growth you’ll have on and off the field. The walk-on grind teaches lessons you won’t find in a textbook or a team meeting.
You’ll develop mental toughness, learn how to handle adversity, and discover what you’re truly capable of when you commit fully. Whether you end up earning a scholarship or simply become a key part of the team, the daily work sharpens your discipline and resilience.
Beyond football, this experience builds habits that set you up for life — grit, time management, leadership, and teamwork. Ask anyone who’s gone through it: the friendships, confidence, and life skills you walk away with are worth every early morning and extra rep.
Can Walk-Ons Earn Scholarships?
Absolutely—it happens every year. Plenty of walk-ons have turned heads through relentless effort and performance, eventually earning full athletic scholarships. In fact, many college programs reserve a handful of scholarships for players who prove themselves after joining as walk-ons. If you hustle, contribute on special teams or scout team, and become a key part of the roster, coaches will notice.
Your status on day one isn’t your destiny. Walk-ons who outwork the scholarship guys often get rewarded.
Balancing Academics and Football as a Walk-On
Life as a walk-on isn’t just about grinding on the field—it’s a juggling act, and your GPA deserves a starting spot, too.
Prioritize time management: map out your week with practices, lifts, and games alongside assignment deadlines and exams. Use tools like Google Calendar or a good old-fashioned planner; whatever keeps you on track and honest about how you’re spending your hours.
Don’t fly under the radar in class. Let your professors know you’re committed both to the team and their coursework—most appreciate the heads-up and can often work with you on deadlines if you’re proactive.
Lean on campus resources, whether it’s the tutoring center, study groups, or teammates who’ve already navigated the same academic grind.
Remember, NFL legends like J.J. Watt once sat in your seat—balancing books and blitzes. If they did it, you can, too.