Football recruiting video tips: what college coaches want

College football coaches watch a lot of recruiting videos. These tips help yours get watched to the end, and get a reply.

100% free · no card · no sign-up · ready in about 5 minutes

What coaches look for, by position

• Quarterback: release, accuracy at all three levels, reading the defense, and throwing on the move.
• Running back: vision, burst through the hole, contact balance, catching, and pass protection.
• Wide receiver: releases off the line, separation, hands in traffic, and yards after the catch.
• Offensive line: first step, hand placement, finishing blocks, and pulling. Linemen especially need a marker so coaches know which one you are.
• Defensive line / linebacker: get-off, shedding blocks, pursuit, and tackling in space.
• Defensive back: backpedal and break, ball skills, open-field tackling, and coverage in man and zone.

Mistakes that get reels skipped

• The coach can't find you. On a full-field angle every player looks the same size. Coaches skip reels where they can't find the player in the first second, especially linemen. A spotlight that marks you before the snap solves it.
• Too long. Stick to about 3 to 5 minutes. More isn't better.
• Best play buried. Lead with your best clip.
• Only the highlights a fan would like. Coaches also want the unglamorous plays that show your position skills.
• Loud music over everything. Fine for social media, but keep the coach version simple.
• No details. Grad year, position, number, team and contact info belong on the reel.

Timing

NCAA rules limit when college coaches can contact recruits, and the dates differ by sport and division. Coaches can still watch your video before they're allowed to reply, so send it early and follow up with updates. Check the official NCAA recruiting calendar for your sport.

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Questions

Is NetSnap really free?

Yes. You upload your clips, tap your player, and download the finished reel at no cost. No card and no sign-up needed.

How long should a recruiting reel be?

Usually 2 to 5 minutes. Coaches often decide in the first 30 seconds, so put your best plays first.

What footage works?

Phone videos and game film (MP4 or MOV) work. Clips filmed from high up and from the side give the clearest reel.

How do coaches know which player I am?

You tap yourself in each clip, and NetSnap puts a spotlight marker on you at exactly that moment, so a coach knows who to watch before the play starts.

How long does it take?

Your reel is usually ready about five minutes after your clips finish uploading.