The world of college football recruitment is undergoing a dramatic transformation, with underclassmen declarations for the NFL draft dropping significantly in recent years. Between 2019 and 2021, an average of 126 underclassmen per year declared for the draft, but that number has plummeted to just 70 athletes from 2023 to 2025 - a staggering 44% decline that signals major changes in collegiate athletics.

This unprecedented shift can be attributed to several groundbreaking developments in college sports, including direct payments to players, expanded Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, and the flexible transfer portal. With schools now able to compensate athletes directly and the NFL maintaining a structured rookie wage scale, more young players are choosing to remain in college, develop their skills, and maximize their earning potential.

The 2026 draft class showcases this trend with a diverse array of talented athletes from powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Alabama, Miami, and Oregon. Top prospects such as Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, Ty Simpson from Alabama, and Dante Moore from Oregon represent a new generation of athletes carefully weighing their professional opportunities.

Notably, the draft declaration landscape now includes players from various positions - quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and defensive specialists are all part of this evolving narrative. Some athletes like Carnell Tate from Ohio State, Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame, and Rueben Bain from Miami are making strategic decisions about their futures, considering not just immediate draft prospects but long-term career potential.

The January 14th deadline for draft declarations remains a critical date for these young athletes, with each player carefully evaluating their options. The reduction in underclassmen declarations suggests a more calculated approach to professional sports entry, where athletes are increasingly viewing college as a comprehensive development platform rather than merely a stepping stone to the NFL.

As the sports world watches this fascinating transition, one thing becomes clear: today's college athletes are more empowered than ever, making decisions that prioritize their personal and professional growth beyond traditional athletic pathways. The 2026 NFL draft class is set to be a testament to this new era of athlete autonomy and strategic career planning.