If you’re serious about playing at the next level, it’s important to understand what college football coaches look for in recruits. It’s not just about size, stats, or highlight tapes — coaches are searching for athletes who bring a complete package both on and off the field.
By knowing what matters most to coaches, you can shape your training, communication, and recruiting strategy to stand out. Let’s break down exactly what they’re looking for — and how you can position yourself for success!
✅ Athletic Ability Comes First — But It’s Not Everything
When it comes to football recruiting, talent always matters. But it’s how you use your athleticism that truly impresses coaches.
✅ Speed, strength, and agility: Can you move fast, explode off the line, and react quickly?
✅ Position-specific skills: Are your fundamentals solid for your position? (e.g., footwork for DBs, blocking for OLs)
✅ Game IQ: Do you understand the flow of the game and make smart decisions under pressure?
📌 Tip: Spend time working on position-specific drills to sharpen the exact skills coaches expect at the next level.
✅ Academic Performance Is a Major Factor
Coaches want athletes who are eligible and dependable in the classroom.
✅ Strong GPA and test scores: The higher your academics, the more opportunities you’ll qualify for.
✅ Academic discipline: Coaches notice if you take school seriously — it reflects your overall character.
✅ Admissions ease: If you’re academically strong, it’s easier for a coach to get you through admissions.
📌 Tip: Keep an updated academic resume with your GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and any honors or awards ready to send with your highlight tape.
✅ Character and Work Ethic Matter More Than You Think
Plenty of talented players never get offers because of attitude, effort, or off-field behavior.
✅ Coachability: Are you someone who listens, adjusts, and stays positive?
✅ Leadership: Do you set an example in practice, the weight room, and in the classroom?
✅ Work ethic: Are you the first to arrive and the last to leave?
📌 Tip: Coaches often ask your high school or JUCO coaches about your attitude and leadership — be someone they want to brag about.
✅ Film That Shows Real Football Ability
Your highlight video is often your first impression — and it should show exactly what coaches are looking for.
✅ Early impact: Coaches want to see your best plays in the first 30 seconds.
✅ Consistency: Don’t just show the big plays; show consistent solid technique and effort.
✅ Position awareness: Show your football IQ — proper reads, pursuit angles, pocket awareness, etc.
📌 Tip: Label your position clearly and use spot shadows if needed — make it easy for coaches to know who to watch.
✅ Clear Communication and Persistence
Coaches appreciate athletes who are organized, respectful, and proactive.
✅ Personalized messages: Always reference the school, your position, and why you’re reaching out.
✅ Follow-up emails: If you don’t hear back after a week, follow up politely. Persistence shows real interest.
✅ Gratitude: Always thank coaches for their time — whether or not they offer you a spot.
📌 Tip: Keep a simple spreadsheet tracking the coaches you contact, dates of communication, and any responses.
✅ Use College Football Openings to Connect With the Right Coaches
Finding coaches who are still actively recruiting your position is critical — and College Football Openings makes it easier than ever.
✅ Access real-time recruiting needs by position and class year
✅ Find coaches actively seeking athletes just like you — no guessing
✅ Increase your chances of meaningful conversations with programs who actually need your skills
📌 Tip: Check College Football Openings weekly — new programs are added as openings change throughout the year.
🔥 Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering what college football coaches look for in recruits, remember this: It’s about much more than talent alone. They want players who work hard, stay disciplined, communicate well, and fit their team culture.
💡 By developing yourself in all areas — athletic, academic, and character — you’ll become the type of recruit coaches can’t wait to add to their roster.
👉 Ready to find your opportunity? Visit College Football Openings. and start connecting with coaches who are actively looking for players like you!
