UNDATED (AP) — The NFL draft is seeing fewer longshots from small schools. The rise of NIL deals and the crowded transfer portal have concentrated talent in power conferences. The shift is impacting the draft, with fewer players from nonpower conferences being taken during the three-day event. Only 24 of 257 NFL draftees last year came from nonpower conferences. The NCAA's policy changes on name, image, and likeness, along with transfer rules, have altered scouting strategies, focusing more on traditional football powerhouses.
UNDATED (AP) — The NIL deals that are transforming college sports are also allowing NFL teams to gain insight into how a young player will react to having money before they get a big pro contract. For many evaluators, it has become an important tool in the draft process. A prospect who stays focused despite lucrative deals is more likely to make a smoother transition to the pros. Scouts want to see if a player’s performance dips after making a lot of money or if he maintains the same work ethic and consistency. How they interact with teammates is also a key dynamic.
NEW YORK (AP) — Five Ohio State players plan to attend the first round of the NFL draft on April 23. Defensive back Caleb Downs, defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, linebacker Arvell Reese, linebacker Sonny Styles and wide receiver Carnell Tate will be in the green room in Pittsburgh waiting for their name to be called. Ohio State has a chance to join Michigan State in 1967 and Notre Dame in 1946 as the only schools to have four players selected in the top 10. Heisman Trophy winner and Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the projected first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders, is expected to watch the draft in Miami.
PHOENIX (AP) — Thanks to money and technology, the MLB and NCAA versions of baseball have never been more similar. There’s also been more movement between the two versions of the sport in recent years. It’s part of the reason Tony Vitello is now the manager of the San Francisco Giants despite never working or playing for a professional organization before he was hired — a first in MLB history. It’s also a factor in why Athletics slugger Nick Kurtz was the AL Rookie of the Year in 2025 barely one year after finishing a decorated college career at Wake Forest.
