Expert: Thom Brooks - 10/2/2007

Question
I am Chris aka Breezy and I'm 26 Years old. I have less than 2 years left on my military contract and I'm goona go to college and try to play some football. I am 5'10 175lbs and I didn't play at all in HS. I ended up playing flag football all the time. I do know that I am good. I think I can play WR / Special teams and maybe DB. I have excellent hands, I did go to a local HS to run the 40 yard dash and they clocked me at 4.28. I heard some wows so I guess that's good. I will have 11 years of military experience and I'm thinking I can bring something to the table. there will be 120 D-1 FBS schools out there and i'm pretty good academically. What are my chances of being a great walk-on and are any such things as college combines or regional and national scout try-outs for example like the NFL combine.

Answer
Chris aka Breezy, hello!

Thanks for your service to our country!

Your experience, physical condition and speed will be a plus to play football.  Your lack of football time and your age will be a negative.  

You need to start all contacts with the schools of choice immediately.  Do not wait two years.  The schools that have an interest will tell you their requirements and work out/ try out dates.  

Playing college ball at age 28 is not unheard of but you would have to be extraordinary to beat out the younger lads with years of football experience.  However, your chances for making Special teams are great.

Contact the Athletic Departments immediately.  Stay motivated!  I'm a Georgia Southern fan, so if the Division I schools are hesitating on you, think of playing football for a team in the Sub Championship Division, formerly
Div 1-AA.

Take care,

Thom Brooks