The college football recruiting landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and staying ahead of the curve is essential for high school athletes looking to advance their careers. Here are the key trends shaping recruiting in 2026:
Early Evaluation and Film Submission
One of the most significant shifts in recent years is the emphasis on early evaluation. College programs are evaluating prospects earlier than ever, with many making initial assessments based on sophomore and even freshman year film. This means athletes need to start building their recruiting profile and submitting quality game film as early as possible.
Platforms like Got1 make it easier than ever to get professional evaluations from verified college scouts, giving you actionable feedback to improve your game and highlight reel before your junior and senior seasons.
Position-Specific Analytics
Scouts are increasingly relying on data-driven evaluations. Beyond traditional stats, they're looking at advanced metrics like:
- Route running efficiency for receivers
- Pass rush win rate for defensive linemen
- Coverage success rate for defensive backs
- Decision-making speed for quarterbacks
Understanding these metrics and how to showcase them in your film can set you apart from other prospects.
Social Media Presence
Your social media presence matters more than ever. Coaches and scouts regularly review prospects' social media accounts to assess character, work ethic, and off-field behavior. A professional, positive online presence can be a significant advantage.
Transfer Portal Impact
The transfer portal has changed how programs approach recruiting. Many schools are balancing high school recruiting with portal transfers, which means you need to be more proactive in building relationships with programs and demonstrating your value early.
NIL Considerations
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities are now a significant factor in recruiting decisions. While NIL shouldn't be your primary motivation, understanding how it works and what opportunities might be available can help you make informed decisions about your college choice.
The Bottom Line
The recruiting process is more competitive and complex than ever. Getting professional evaluations from verified scouts early in your high school career can help you understand where you stand, identify areas for improvement, and position yourself for success in the recruiting process.
Start building your recruiting profile today and get the professional feedback you need to advance your football career.