In the MLS Draft season, a lot of attention turns to the best programs in the country. National championship winners are praised, NCAA Tournament appearances are scrutinized. But look outside the immediate elite, and you might just find some hidden gems.

Two players awaiting their draft fate hail from quality teams outside the traditional powers. But both bring quality and could end up sticking in MLS if the right fit and opportunity should come their way. 

Grand Canyon forward Shaun Joash and Air Force Academy center back London Aghedo both played for programs outside the NCAA Tournament picture. But overlooking them might well be a mistake for scouts and fans alike. Both were two of the best players in the WAC the past couple of seasons. Their quality is clear — regardless of the college they suited up for.

A native of Hampton, England, Joash’s path has been one all too familiar to foreign nationals in college soccer. Josah had a connection with the Furman head coach while starring in the English club scene. His time in South Carolina brought success — he scored nine goals across 19 career starts for the Padadins. But a change of scenery appealed to him. Grand Canyon was his eventual pick, where Josah reached another level. This year was arguably his best in college soccer, as Josah scored 12 and assisted six. He was named WAC Offensive Player of the Year.

“I am much more comfortable in my position as a No. 9 and am just understanding more, and seeing things ahead of time,” Joash said.

For MLS scouts, there’s a lot to like about the Hampton native. Joash has the physical profile and athleticism to be able to compete with the strength of MLS center backs. He’s also — as his numbers suggest — a clinical finisher. That combination, one of finishing skill and physical excellence, figures to play at the next level.

“I want to secure that one year contract, and then secure the next one after that, and just execute at whatever level I get the opportunity to play at,” Joash said.

And although mid-major players don’t necessarily catch the eye as power five names, Joash might just be a hidden gem in a deep draft.

The same can be said for Air Force’s London Aghedo. An athletic center back, with good positional sense and an admirable work rate, Aghedo has all of the fundamentals necessary to find a spot at the next level. He proved his quality in the WAC time and time again, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors this past season.

Aghedo might just have an extra edge, too. The Valencia, California native has started every game he's appeared in at the Academy — garnering a wealth of experience of high level soccer. And although he wasn’t a massive name coming out of high school, or recognized as one of the nation’s elite, Aghedo insists he has an edge.

“I have the skills to play the next level. But a huge thing is like just the discipline and the drive to want to be better every day. That's something that I do have, based off of life experiences, and the way I was raised,” Agehdo said. “I think that’s what will set me apart from other defenders, or other people in the draft.”

He wouldn't be the first Air Force Academy product to get a shot in the pros either. Tristan Trager was selected by Atlanta United in the 2022 edition of the draft. Tucker Bone, a first round pick by the Seattle Sounders back in 2019, has carved out a career in the USL Championship.

So, the two draft hopefuls aren’t necessarily at the top of most boards. But they figure to be in the mix for an MLS roster come the spring, should they hear their name called on Wednesday, December 21. And with their mid major background breeding an extra drive, they might just nail down spots in the league this year and going forward.

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