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 Saturday viewing schedule, 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.
Keyshawn James-Newby, EDGE, Idaho
Having 12 pressures in the last three weeks has brought me back to Keyshawn James-Newby, an athlete that’s popped a few times in this piece throughout the fall. While Idaho remains a small school program with just two drafted players in the last 11 cycles, James-Newby has a legit shot this spring. He’s an athletic defender at 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds. He plays with outstanding effort (see below clip) and touts the nuance and movement skills worthy of draft capital.
Marcus Yarns, RB, Delaware
One of the most explosive ball-carriers in college football, Marcus Yarns can flat out scoot. Per representatives within the Delaware program, GPS technology has tracked him at more than 22 mph in live game action, showcasing the type of get-up-and-go that Yarns possesses. His numbers won’t wow, but the skill set warrants attention.
Lan Larison, RB, UC-Davis
Remember Dylan Laube (New Hampshire) from last year? While not as explosive, there’s something to Lan Larison, the FCS leader among RBs in receptions (43), receiving yards (535), and TDs (5) heading into Week 11. The reigning Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year, Larison is an offensive chess piece to watch as the cycle continues.
Bryce Henderson, OT, South Dakota
A massive man at 6-foot-8, Bryce Henderson does well to utilize his length to stymie opponents. He also has an active base that allows him to get out and jump set edge rushers, leaving minimal space for his opponents to operate. A versatile piece that has earned heavy snaps at right tackle and left guard during his time at South Dakota, an NFL club could see him as an intriguing ball of clay at the position worthy of taking a flier on.
