How to Follow Up with College Football Coaches (The Right Way)
Have you ever sent your film to a college football coach… only to hear crickets?
You’re not alone. One of the most frustrating parts of the recruiting process is getting ghosted by coaches — especially after they’ve told you to follow up. But here’s the good news: following up the right way can actually set you apart from every other athlete in their inbox.
In this post, we’ll break down the best follow-up strategies that actually lead to responses — straight from a live coaching session with real athletes navigating the same challenges.
1. If a Coach Told You to Follow Up… Do It Boldly
One athlete shared that he’d already sent updated highlights and texts, but the coach wasn’t responding — even though he could see the coach had read the messages.
The advice?
Call. Don’t wait. Don’t guess. Don’t ghost yourself.
Coaches are insanely busy during the season, and sometimes they want you to keep following up — they just don’t have time to initiate. If a coach told you to reach back out, you have permission to be persistent. Call twice a week. If there’s no answer, follow up with a polite text.
2. Don’t Be Afraid of Rejection
One key mindset shift: You're not calling to beg for a scholarship. You're calling to find out if they're still interested.
The worst-case scenario? The coach says, “Thanks, but it’s not a fit.”
That’s not a loss — that’s clarity.
Now you can stop wondering and focus your energy on coaches who are genuinely interested.
3. Time Your Calls Strategically
Coaches are most likely to answer on:
Mondays and Tuesdays (early in the week, when they’re reviewing film)
Fridays or travel days (when they may have lighter schedules)
Their bye week (use this to your advantage — look it up!)
Timing matters. Be smart, not spammy.
4. When You Send Film, Ask a Specific Question
Another athlete in the session shared that a coach liked his GPA, film, and camp performance — but after he sent a follow-up DM, the coach went silent.
That’s where a small tweak made a big difference.
Instead of just saying “Here’s my film,” ask:
“How do you see me fitting into your program?”
“How do I fit into your offensive or defensive schemes?”
This invites a conversation — not just a thumbs-up.
Final Thoughts
Following up with college coaches isn’t just about staying on their radar — it’s about taking control of the process.
If they gave you their number or asked you to follow up — follow up. Don’t overthink it. Be respectful, consistent, and confident. The players who pick up the phone are often the ones who get the offer.
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