No, current ratings and good game planning are what matters for games now. Work ethic and potential help determine how the players will develop for the future.
A high GPA will help develop the formation IQ faster. But in Division 3, I would only consider this for QBs. A good formation IQ and Game Instinct will help your QB avoid throwing interceptions. And speaking of QBs, you definitely need to recruit one. Find a good QB and redshirt him. He will be one of the big keys for your team's future.