How to Get Scouted by the NFL

"Touchdown!" shouts the referee, and the crowd goes wild. Lots of kids dream of playing professional football and receiving all of the attention that comes with it. Getting to the pros requires hard work, talent and a great deal of preparation. Professional athletes aren't born that way; they are made through a methodical approach to training. Perfecting the techniques of your position is the best thing you can do if attempting to turn pro. Being blessed with the physical gifts scouts looks for is helpful, but it is your work ethic and love for the game that will carry you through the highly subjective process of trying out for an NFL team.

Instructions

    • 1

      Earn a scholarship to play football at a four-year university. Play for a NCAA division I program if possible. The NFL scouts players from division II and division III programs also, but the chances of getting noticed are smaller. Division I universities offer the highest level of competition.

    • 2

      Play as best as you possibly can. Be a starter at your position. Earn all--conference honors at least one season or more. Make the All-American list if possible. Do whatever it takes to get recognition from coaches, fellow players and the media.

    • 3

      Ask your college coach to speak to NFL scouts on your behalf. Put together a highlight reel of your best on-field moments and submit it to NFL scouts.

    • 4

      Play in one of the post-collegiate football season all-star games, such as the Senior Bowl or the East-West Shrine game. NFL coaches train the teams for these games. Performing well during the week of practice leading up to the game, or playing well during the game, will impress these coaches.

    • 5

      Earn an invitation to an NFL combine. These are the official evaluation camps that NFL teams use to screen players. Players are tested for speed, strength, jumping ability, and position-specific skills. Perform these drills to the best of your ability to impress scouts and coaches.

    • 6

      Work out the same way as a current NFL player at your position. Compile a list of successful professional players at your position. Contact the conditioning coach of the team the player plays for to find out about the workout regimen. Or contact the player directly, if possible. NFL players will often allow talented college players to work out with them in the off-season. Do everything the way that a professional athlete does it and take care of your body.

    • 7

      Study films of football games so that you understand as much about your position as possible. NFL scouts also evaluate prospective players for intelligence as it relates to football. Become a student of the game the same as the best professional players.