Treyvhon Saunders’ journey to the upcoming Jan. 4 NFL-FCS Showcase in Nashville, Tenn, is a story of dreams, resilience, and faith.
When he joined the Colgate football program in the fall of 2022, Saunders envisioned himself with an opportunity to compete in the NFL one day. It wasn’t just a dream; it was a goal he was determined to achieve.
“I was determined to put in an immense amount of work and effort to make everything I dreamed of become a reality,” Saunders said.
Now, with an invitation to the NFL-FCS Showcase in hand, Saunders stands on the brink of a significant milestone in his football career.
The NFL-FCS showcase provides a premier evaluation platform for about 50 Football Championship Subdivision prospects, invited by NFL scouts, who are eligible for the 2026 NFL draft. It provides invited players with a complete evaluation by NFL team scouting staffs.
"This first-of-its-kind-event gives FCS student-athletes the chance to put their best foot forward and connect with NFL scouts and staff," said Ty Halpin, NCAA director of championships, in a recent release. "It adds to the excitement of FCS championship weekend, which culminates with a prime-time kickoff to crown our national champion in Nashville."
Overcoming Setbacks
Saunders’ journey hasn’t been without its challenges. This season, he encountered highs and lows that tested his resilience.
He went from being ranked the nation’s No. 1 FCS receiver to a season-ending injury that left him on the sidelines, coaching his teammates with the help of a mobility scooter. At the time of the injury, Saunders led the FCS in receptions (50), reception yards (700), and reception yards per game (116.67). He also had six touchdown receptions, which at the time was top 10 nationally.
Through it all, Saunders remained steadfast and level-headed, never wavering in his faith and his understanding of God’s plan for his life.
“I never questioned God’s plan for my life,” he said. “I understand this was a door that is being opened, and I will be able to showcase my abilities that I have worked so hard to accomplish.”
As a captain for two years, Saunders learned the importance of leadership and the impact it can have on a team. He discovered the value of doing what’s right, both on and off the field, and understood that his actions could influence others in a positive direction.
“The Colgate football program shaped me as a player and as a person by fostering leadership skills that will carry me through life,” he said.
Showcasing His Skills
Student-athletes invited to the event will be interviewed by representatives of NFL clubs. Prospects will participate in limited on-field drills, and participants will be invited to attend the championship game that evening. As Saunders prepares, he approaches it with a sense of purpose and determination.
He’s engaging in mental preparation by honing his interview skills and familiarizing himself with the nuances of Colgate’s offense. Physically, he’s putting in the hard work through rehab and training, ensuring that he’s in peak condition to impress the scouts.
“I am confident that my abilities will impress scouts,” Saunders said. “ I want them to know that I have the knowledge and experience to understand defenses, where I have to attack coverages, and where I need to be on a QB’s timing.”
These are the elements that may not always be visible on film, but they are integral components of Saunders’ game.
As Saunders prepares to take the field at the NFL-FCS Showcase, he does so with gratitude and a sense of purpose.
“It’s an honor to be invited,” Saunders said. “I feel blessed and grateful for this opportunity.”
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