So I have a team who ended up with 4 picks between 25 and 40 (FA comps) unfortunately my col and HS scouting is at 12. My impulse is to punt this draft away by selecting those lovely probably won't sign players and hope that i can end up next season with my own pick + these 4 as comp picks giving my 5 of the top 50 picks with 17 scouting at HS/Col .

My concern is that 12 scouting budget doesn't just fudge the ratings, but also could give me incorrect signing probabilities. Just wondering if any of you have any more insight on this? Have you picked a player in hopes of getting to get a type D pick on the following season only that have the player sign for slot money?

The scouting budget has no bearing on the signing probabilities, as far as I'm aware. It only affects the rating projections. If you go for the Probably won't Sign guys to wait for the comp picks, make sure that their mother is listed as their consultant. But also be aware that they often ask for much more money, so you have to make sure you have enough to make them an offer. You don't have to offer to all of them at the same time, so offer to 1 or 2, wait for them to formally decline (the big red X), then offer to the others.

Compensation round picks for Type A and Type B FAs DO NOT qualify for Type D compensation picks.

gopher is right

I totally missed that the first time I read this. Only your natural picks qualify for Type Ds.