Pipeline
NFL production
Signing classes 2016 · NFL signee counts by recruit position
No recruits from this era reached the NFL.
Program year analysis and class DNA metrics for Ball State (2016).
2016 recruiting class — expectation versus Stars2Stats outcomes
Class medals
“Built on development, not recruiting rankings.”
S2S Class DNA
One-year metrics for this recruiting class
Recruits that contributed to program
Share who became impact players (starters, elite contributors, or NFL)
Based on only Low HS Projection → All-Conference or higher
Recruits that reached the NFL in any tier
Share with limited verified outcomes
Pipeline
Signing classes 2016 · NFL signee counts by recruit position
No recruits from this era reached the NFL.
The 2016 recruiting class for Ball State displayed a mix of outcomes that reflect the program's developmental capabilities. With a total of 22 recruits, the class was originally ranked 108 but saw a significant improvement in the S2S rerank to 75. This upward movement suggests that while the initial expectations were low, the program was able to cultivate talent effectively within this group.
The notable success of recruits like Brandon Martin and Drew Plitt, both of whom earned all-conference honors, indicates the program's ability to identify and develop talent that may have been initially overlooked by higher-tier recruiting services. The presence of three players achieving "College Starter" status further emphasizes a trend of successful development, demonstrating that Ball State was able to maximize the potential of lower-ranked recruits.
Conversely, the class also faced challenges, particularly with two recruits labeled as "Bust." Both Dominick Mathis and T.J. Beltavski, who were ranked within the 2200s, did not meet expectations based on their initial rankings. This highlights that while some players flourished, there were also significant shortcomings among certain higher-ranked prospects.
Overall, the 2016 recruiting class for Ball State met expectations, particularly given the substantial improvement reflected in the S2S rerank. The class's ability to produce multiple all-conference players and starters suggests a successful developmental strategy by the coaching staff. Despite a couple of underperformers, the overall outcomes indicate a positive trend in the program’s recruiting efforts.
In summary, while the class had its challenges, the successful development of several recruits signifies a promising direction for Ball State football.