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.
Nehemiah Martinez, WR, Abilene Christian
A transfer into the program after three years at Texas Tech, Martinez’s experience at the Power Four level has remained on display throughout the early portions of the campaign. For prospects at lower levels, teams want to see dominant, overpowering production on a weekly basis in order to move the needle. For the 5-foot-9 Martinez, he’s reached the end zone eight times already this fall with 611 receiving yards to boot. He’s also been impactful on teams, serving as the Wildcats’ primary punt returner.
Deontay Campbell, TE, Missouri Southern State
Injuries have hampered Cambell’s production so far this year, but his long-term projection remains highly intriguing. In matchups against Pittsburg State (Kansas) and Missouri Western this fall, Campbell amassed 17 catches, 212 receiving yards, and three touchdowns. He’s a name to follow who is also on the Senior Bowl Watchlist for the 2025 cycle.
Carter Runyon, TE, Towson
Towson’s first-ever Division I All-American at the position, Runyon’s 6-foot-6 frame has drawn NFL evaluators to the Tigers’ campus right outside of Baltimore, Maryland. It’s not often you see a tight end as a college program’s leader through the air, but Runyon remains the hefty straw that stirs the drink for Towson’s aerial attack. The 2023 first-team All-CAA selection is a former transfer from Division III Shenandoah (VA).
Chandler Brayboy, WR, Elon
One of the country’s most explosive weapons at the FCS level, Brayboy is a name to know for teams in pursuit of multi-phase contributors. He’ll finish his career at Elon with over 2,000 receiving yards to his name, but his projection expands as a core special teamer. He averaged 26.9 yards per return on 16 chances last fall (tenth in the nation), was named a 2024 preseason first-team All-CAA honoree as an all-purpose specialist, and second-team All-CAA at both wide receiver and kick returner. A redshirt senior, Brayboy’s versatility could carry weight in the pre-draft process.
