What Is 2016 NFL draft early entrants

Overview

The 2016 NFL Draft saw a significant number of college underclassmen declare early, opting to forgo remaining eligibility to enter professional football. These early entrants are players who have not completed four years of college football but meet the NFL’s age and eligibility requirements.

Declared prospects underwent evaluations by NFL teams, participated in the NFL Scouting Combine, and attended pro days to improve draft stock. The influx of underclassmen reflected growing trends in player development and strategic timing for maximizing draft value.

• 87 total underclassmen officially declared for early entry, the highest number since 2014, signaling strong confidence in draft stock.
• Players had to submit paperwork by January 18, 2016, the league-mandated deadline for underclassmen to enter the draft.
• The group included 9 quarterbacks, highlighting a deep class at the most important position in football.
• Notable non-quarterbacks included defensive end Shaq Lawson from Clemson and cornerback Jalen Ramsey from Florida State.
• Of the 87, 57 were selected in the seven-round draft, while 30 went undrafted but signed as free agents.

How It Works

Entering the NFL Draft early requires underclassmen to formally declare their eligibility, a decision with long-term implications for college status and professional opportunities.

• Term: Early entry is permitted for players who are at least three years removed from high school. This rule ensures a minimum maturity and development threshold.
• Declaration deadline: All underclassmen must submit a written notice by mid-January; in 2016, the cutoff was January 18, as set by the NFL.
• Irrevocable decision: Once declared, players cannot return to college football, making the choice a permanent and strategic career move.
• Scouting Combine: Early entrants are invited to the February 2016 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis to perform physical and mental evaluations.
• Pro days: Players also attend their college’s pro day, where they showcase skills to NFL scouts and team representatives.
• Draft eligibility: The NFL requires entrants to be at least 21 years old by the draft date or three seasons removed from high school graduation.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 2016 early entrant class compared to recent draft years in terms of underclassmen declarations and selections.

The 2016 class was notable for its depth at quarterback and defensive skill positions. While fewer underclassmen were drafted compared to 2014, the overall talent level was high, with multiple first-round picks. The trend of early declarations continued to grow, influenced by improved draft projections and financial incentives.

Why It Matters

The 2016 early entrant class had a lasting impact on NFL rosters and team-building strategies, shaping franchise trajectories for years. Evaluating underclassmen remains a critical component of NFL scouting departments.

• Carson Wentz was drafted 2nd overall by the Rams and immediately traded to the Eagles, becoming their franchise QB.
• Jared Goff, selected 1st overall, revitalized the Rams’ offense and later led the team to a Super Bowl.
• Several early entrants, like Joey Bosa, became immediate starters and Defensive Rookie of the Year candidates.
• The influx of talent increased competition, pushing some veterans out of starting roles early in their careers.
• Teams investing high picks in underclassmen faced greater pressure to evaluate maturity and injury risk accurately.
• The draft also highlighted North Carolina State and Clemson as key producers of early-entry NFL talent.

Ultimately, the 2016 early entrant class demonstrated the importance of timing, preparation, and scouting in professional football. These decisions continue to influence how college athletes approach the transition to the NFL.