
The 2026 NFL Draft marks the first time no FCS players have been selected through the first three rounds. This historic absence raises questions about the future of FCS representation in the NFL.
Where are the FCS players? NFL Draft makes bad kind of history for former Division I-AA schools originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The 2026 NFL Draft has left the FCS at home.
At least that's how it has felt through three rounds. The schools formerly known as Division I-AA haven't gotten any part of the action through 100 picks.
It's the first time since the divisional distinction that no FCS players have been drafted through three rounds:
There are likely reasons for this, and it's also likely to change on Saturday when rounds four through seven take place.
2026 NFL DRAFT HQ:Live tracker | Pick-by-pick grades | Best players still available
The transfer portal and NIL money have a lot to do with this.
Not every player drafted in the first 100 picks began his career at an FBS school. Just by the time they reached draft eligibility, they were at a big program.
A bunch of them grinded at lower levels to reach those heights, but there was simply too much incentive to transfer up the ladder.
BEST DRAFT NAMES:Ephesians Prysock | R Mason Thomas | DeVonta Smith | Zxavian Harris
The biggest name here is likely Bryce Lance, the WR out of North Dakota State who is Trey Lance's younger brother.
Stephen F. Austin cornerback Charles Demmings should get picked.
Lance's NDSU QB, Cole Payton, is a lefty that should go at some point.
Keep an eye on the big defensive tackle Kaleb Proctor out of SE Louisiana.
And if you're looking beyond FCS -- Division III John Carroll's Tyren Montgomery should come off the board at some point.
The absence of FCS players in the first three rounds is attributed to various factors, including scouting trends and the overall talent pool.
This historic absence may indicate challenges for FCS schools in developing players who can compete at the NFL level, impacting recruitment and visibility.
There are four rounds remaining in the 2026 NFL Draft, where FCS players still have the opportunity to be drafted.


¡Paquito Navarro vuelve a jugar con Martín Di Nenno en Premier Padel!
Denver Broncos pick Jonah Coleman in the 2026 NFL draft
Bayern Munich staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Mainz 4-3, with Jamal Musiala playing a pivotal role. He scored a crucial goal and assisted the winning goal, earning him the title of man of the match.
Tyler Onyedim joins the Broncos, focused on learning from the best.
Arsenal's title hopes take a hit as Kai Havertz injures his leg against Newcastle.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.