1. Athletic Ability (Physical Tools)
Speed, strength, explosiveness, and agility — can the player move at a college level?
Frame and growth potential — do they have the size or build to compete in college, or room to develop?
Position-specific skills — for example, hips and footwork for DBs, hand placement for linemen, or route running for WRs.
2. Football IQ (Game Understanding)
Does the player understand schemes, reads, and responsibilities?
Can they recognize formations and adjust on the fly?
Do they play with discipline — staying in coverage, reading keys, or maintaining gap integrity?
3. Effort, Motor, and Competitiveness
Coaches love players who go 100% every rep, even in bad situations.
They watch how you react to mistakes or losing plays.
A player’s drive to win and compete often separates scholarship athletes from everyone else.
4. Character and Coachability
Coaches talk to high school coaches, teachers, and even community members to learn about your attitude.
Are you coachable — willing to take feedback and improve?
Do you show leadership, discipline, and respect off the field?

5. Academics and Eligibility
NCAA GPA and test score requirements must be met.
Coaches want players who can handle the classroom and stay eligible.
Strong academics also show maturity and reliability.
Bonus: “Projection”
Ultimately, coaches ask:
“Can this player help us win at our level — and how soon?”
They project your potential in 1–3 years, not just how you play right now.
Coach Rod