Record Number of Student-Athletes Pursuing Degrees While Competing in College Football

Strategic Insights -

Colorado State University Pueblo and 238 other NCAA Division II schools have a record 3,675 student-athletes who have earned their undergraduate degrees and will be playing college football this fall while pursuing additional diplomas. This marks the eighth year that the National Football Foundation (NFF) has compiled a list of graduate players, highlighting the dedication of student-athletes to balancing their academic and athletic pursuits.

Key Takeaways:

  • 10 student-athletes from Colorado State University Pueblo are among the record 3,675 student-athletes who have already earned their undergraduate degrees and will be playing college football this fall.
  • The NFF has compiled a list of graduate players for the eighth consecutive year, highlighting the commitment of student-athletes to education.
  • 238 players from 39 NCAA Division II schools are represented on the list, including Colorado State University Pueblo and Colorado School of Mines.
  • The Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) has 2,245 players from 133 schools pursuing additional diplomas, while the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) has 1,083 players from 86 schools.
  • The NAIA has 38 players from 11 schools on the list, with Southeastern (Fla.) leading the way with 10 graduates.
  • The NFF compiled the list with the help of sports information directors from all divisions of the NCAA and NAIA, who identified the players on their 2025 fall rosters who have already earned their undergraduate degrees.
  • A total of 302 schools responded to the NFF this year, providing information on their graduate players.

Statistics:

  • 3,675 student-athletes have earned their undergraduate degrees and will be playing college football this fall while pursuing additional diplomas.
  • 238 players from 39 NCAA Division II schools, including Colorado State University Pueblo, are represented on the list of graduated student-athletes.
  • 2,245 players from 133 FBS schools are pursuing additional diplomas.
  • 1,083 players from 86 FCS schools are pursuing additional diplomas.
  • 71 players from 33 NCAA Division III schools are on the list.
  • 38 players from 11 NAIA schools are on the list.
  • 302 schools submitted their information for inclusion on the list.

Sources:

  • National Football Foundation (NFF)

+ "NFF Announces List of Student-Athletes Earning Their Undergraduate Degrees While Competing in College Football"

  • Colorado State University Pueblo Athletics

+ "Record Number of Student-Athletes Pursuing Degrees While Competing in College Football"