The FCS has long been a hidden gem in the world of college football, producing NFL talent that often goes unnoticed by the common eye.
While the annual draft spotlight tends to shine on the Power Four programs that headline your viewing schedule each Saturday, the FCS level consistently showcases a wealth of intriguing skill sets. Stemming from conversations within league circles over the spring and summer, here are a few prospects to become familiar with in this rendition of ‘FCS Friday’, a piece that will update weekly as names continue to flash during the fall.
Shunderrick Powell, RB, Central Arkansas
A name that was popular in some circles during last year’s process, Powell has wasted no time in producing en mass once again in 2024. He’s gone over 120 yards in each of his three games thus far, with eight total touchdowns from scrimmage. A playmaker at the position who had 19 offers coming out of High School in Hoxie, Arkansas, Powell is a name to know once again.
Josh Derry, WR, Monmouth
Derry is still only a true sophomore, but I’m always keeping an eye on up-and-coming talent with the potential to draw eyes down the road. A former track star in high school, Derry projects as a potential multi-phase contributor down the line for Monmouth. In Week 3 alone, Derry caught seven passes for 227 yards and two touchdowns against Maine.
Jalen Walthall, WR, Incarnate Word
A transfer from Hawaii, Walthall has been excellent in his redshirt junior campaign thus far. He looks the part at 6-foot-2 with the explosiveness of a former All-State triple jumper in High School. He’s gone over 100 yards receiving in each of his first three games and is absolutely a name to keep an eye on as the season progresses.
Keyshawn James-Newby, DL, Idaho
The current FCS leader in sacks (6), James-Newby is a name to bold as the months progress. Not only has he dominated FCS competition, but he totaled two sacks against Oregon in Week 1 and has excellent tape against Nevada (three pressures) and California (five pressures) from last fall. Continuing to punish FCS offensive lines could get him an opportunity at one of the premier pre-draft showcases this winter.
