You’ve got the skills.
You’re putting in the work.
But the interest from coaches just… isn’t there.
If you’re asking yourself why you’re not getting recruited for college football, you’re not alone. Thousands of players go through the same thing — and most of the time, it’s not a lack of talent. It’s a lack of strategy.
Let’s break down the most common reasons players get overlooked — and how to fix them starting today.
✅ You’re Not on Coaches’ Radars Yet
The biggest issue? Coaches don’t know you exist.
✅ You haven’t sent enough (or any) emails to coaches
✅ You’re not using platforms that show which schools are still recruiting
✅ You haven’t followed up to stay top of mind
📌 Fix It: Start with 3–5 personalized emails per week. Include your film, GPA, position, and a quick note about why you’re reaching out. Follow up every 7–10 days if you don’t hear back.
✅ Your Highlight Video Isn’t Doing You Justice
You might be a great player — but if your film doesn’t show it, coaches will move on.
✅ Your best plays aren’t at the beginning
✅ Your clips are hard to follow, unlabeled, or too long
✅ Your video doesn’t clearly show your role in each play
📌 Fix It: Re-edit your highlight tape. Keep it under 4 minutes. Lead with your best plays. Use clear labels and zoom if needed.
✅ You’re Only Aiming for D1 Schools
We get it — everyone dreams of D1. But limiting yourself can cost you real opportunities.
✅ D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO programs offer real playing time, development, and scholarships
✅ Some of the best stories in football started at smaller schools
✅ Coaches care more about fit and effort than your original star rating
📌 Fix It: Expand your outreach to schools across every level. D1 is a great goal — but getting on the field matters more.
✅ You’re Not Using the Right Tools
Random emails to schools that aren’t recruiting your position won’t work.
✅ You need to know which programs are actively filling roster spots
✅ Timing matters — some coaches only have spots for a few more weeks
✅ You need to focus on fit, not just status
📌 Fix It: Use College Football Openings to target schools still recruiting your position and class year. This gives you a real edge and saves time.
✅ You’re Not Showcasing the Full Picture
Coaches want to see more than just raw talent — they recruit complete players.
✅ Are your grades strong?
✅ Do you show leadership and hustle in your film?
✅ Are you coachable and positive in how you communicate?
📌 Fix It: Include your GPA, test scores, and a short “about me” section in your outreach. Let coaches know you’re reliable and ready to represent their program on and off the field.
✅ You Gave Up Too Soon
Recruiting is a grind — and most athletes don’t follow through.
✅ Many give up after 5 or 10 emails
✅ Most never revise their strategy
✅ Few treat it like a real job search — but that’s exactly what it is
📌 Fix It: Stay consistent. Track your outreach. Learn from feedback. The athletes who stay in the game are the ones who eventually win.
🔥 Final Thoughts
If you’re still wondering why you’re not getting recruited for college football, stop focusing on the scoreboard — and start focusing on your strategy.
✅ Be proactive
✅ Be professional
✅ Be persistent
👉 Ready to turn things around? Visit College Football Openings today and connect with coaches who are still recruiting for your position. Your shot is still out there — go earn it.
