Underclassmen to get more chances to impress NFL scouts earlier

The NFL and American Football Coaches Association announced Monday new regulations that should allow league scouts better access to underclassmen.

The agreement, which goes into effect in February, is designed to allow the NFL’s College Advisory Committee to gather more information and give juniors thinking about leaving early a better picture of when they might be drafted.

In February, schools may designate five underclassmen (or more with special permission) to be timed, tested and interviewed with the seniors at college Pro Days.

Additionally, NFL teams will be permitted to scout those players throughout the 2017 season as though they were seniors in their final season of college football eligibility.