College Gridiron Showcase Watch List Powered by Tracking Football Spotlights Next Generation of NFL Talent
August 20, 2025 — The College Gridiron Showcase (CGS) in partnership with Tracking Football is proud to announce the release of the 2026 CGS Watch List, featuring more than 1,000 college senior NFL hopefuls from across the nation.
The annual CGS Watch List serves as the definitive preview of top collegiate football players who have demonstrated both elite athletic ability and professional potential, providing NFL scouts, media, agents, and fans with a comprehensive look at the talent poised to shape the future of professional football.
Unprecedented Scope: Over 1,000 NFL Hopefuls Identified
This year’s Watch List, powered by Tracking Football’s advanced analytics, highlights a record-breaking cohort of over 1,000 college seniors. These athletes represent every major conference and a wide array of programs—from Power Five giants to rising stars from smaller schools—demonstrating the diversity and depth of talent across the college football landscape.
Tracking Football: The Power Behind the Data
The collaboration between CGS and Tracking Football gives the Watch List its distinctive edge. Tracking Football’s proprietary analytics platform evaluates prospects using criteria such as:
- High school track and field data
- College Production Metrics
- Physical measurements and combine results
- Football intelligence and leadership ratings
This data-driven approach provides teams with actionable insights, identifying athletes whose skills translate to the professional game and highlighting those who might otherwise be overlooked.
Key Highlights of the 2026 CGS Watch List
- Over 1,000 Senior Athletes Featured: One of the largest and most diverse group in CGS history, encompassing prospects from FBS, FCS, Division II, Division III and NAIA programs.
- Comprehensive Scouting Profiles: Each athlete is evaluated using a blend of traditional scouting and advanced analytics, providing NFL personnel with a robust overview.
- Spotlight on Under-the-Radar Talent: The Watch List shines a light on athletes from smaller schools and non-traditional football backgrounds, expanding opportunities for overlooked prospects.
- Industry-Leading Platform: Powered by Tracking Football, the list offers granular data to support informed decisions for teams and agents.
The Selection Process
The process begins with nominations from college coaches, scouts, and analysts, followed by rigorous evaluation using Tracking Football’s metrics. Only seniors who meet strict performance and character criteria are considered, ensuring the Watch List maintains its reputation for excellence.
Once selected, athletes receive invitations to the CGS event. For many, inclusion on the Watch List is both an honor and a steppingstone toward professional careers. The showcase itself features interviews, educational seminars, and on-field drills, all designed to maximize exposure and development.
Impact on Athletes and NFL Teams
The CGS Watch List has a proven track record of propelling athletes toward the next level. Hundreds of former participants have signed with NFL franchises, Canadian Football League teams, and other professional organizations. Alumni of the event are found on active rosters, practice squads, and in leadership roles across all professional leagues.
For teams, the list provides an invaluable resource for uncovering talent. With over 1,000 seniors profiled, NFL personnel can efficiently target prospects who fit their systems, regardless of program size or conference affiliation.
Media and Community Engagement
CGS and Tracking Football encourage engagement from fans, media, and the broader football community. The Watch List is publicly available on the CGS website, enabling anyone to explore the class of NFL hopefuls. Interviews, player spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content will be shared throughout the lead-up to the showcase, offering a transparent view into the selection process and athlete journeys.
In addition, the CGS continues its commitment to athlete education, offering sessions on financial literacy, media training, and life after football. This holistic approach ensures that prospects are prepared for success both on and off the field.
Quotes from Leadership
Jose Jefferson, Executive Director of College Gridiron Showcase:
“Every year, CGS sets the standard for identifying and developing tomorrow’s NFL stars. Our partnership with Tracking Football allows us to dig deeper into the data, find athletes who might have slipped through the cracks, and give them the exposure they deserve. This year’s Watch List is one of our biggest yet, and we can’t wait to see these seniors showcase their talents in front of the entire football world.”
Mark Branstad, CEO of Tracking Football:
“We’re proud to power the CGS Watch List. Our analytics platform brings a new level of insight into scouting, helping teams make smarter decisions and giving athletes a fair shot at the next level. The diversity and quality of this year’s group is truly impressive.”
Looking Ahead: The Showcase Event
The College Gridiron Showcase event will take place on January 9th through the 11th , 2026, featuring college seniors from the Watch List in a weekend-long program of activities, drills, and interviews with NFL personnel. Coverage will be available via major sports networks and digital platforms.
- Event Date: January 9th through the 11th 2026
- Location: Fort Worth, Texas
- Watch List Release: August 20, 2025
Fans are encouraged to follow CGS and Tracking Football on social media for updates, exclusive content, and live coverage from the event.
Contact Information
For media inquiries, interviews, or further information regarding the CGS Watch List or upcoming showcase event, please contact:
- Email: info@cgsfootball.com
- Website: www.collegegridironshowcase.com
Join us in celebrating the achievements of over 1,000 college senior NFL hopefuls as they take their next steps toward a future in professional football.