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Jordan ReidESPN
Welcome to Week 1 2022 college football season. Although it’s been a long summer of football, the first week of college football is here. Saturday will see HBCU play. Howard Faces Alabama State The Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff 7.30 p.m. (ESPN/ESPN App).
Events like the HBCU Legacy Bowl or the Reese’s Senior Bowl’s HBCU scouting combination have helped provide a better pipeline of talent for the NFL. HBCU alums linebacker Shaquille Leonard Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave they are among the most talented NFL players at each of their respective positions. Four players from HBCU ranks were also drafted in 2022.
This was the highest number of HBCU students selected since 2019, and could indicate that more players will be drafted or signed as undrafted agents. Who could be next? 2023 NFL draft Pay attention to this season
I met with many coaches and scouts across the country over the summer and spent hours filming to compile my first HBCU watchlist. Here are my top 50 draft eligible HBCU prospects. This includes both Division II and FCS players (though it excludes recent transferees who didn’t play at an HCU school last season).
HT: 6-foot-4 | WT: 225 pounds | Class: Senior
Land, the arguably best player among small-school players entering this season was the FCS’s top player, finishing 2021 in first place in sacks (19) and 25.5 tackles for losses (25.5). Land entered the transfer portal, and was offered numerous Power 5 offers. However, he decided to return to the Rattlers. He’s expected continue to be one the country’s most disruptive forces this year.
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 295 | Class: Senior
Evans is entering his fourth season as a starter. With another successful season, Evans could be the Golden Lions first draft pick since fellow tackle Terron Armstead He was selected in 2013. Evans is praised by coaches for his physicality and football instincts. He could also follow the lead of Southern offensive lineman. Ja’Tyre CarterHis stock steadily rose throughout his final season as well as the pre-draft process.
HT: 6-foot-4 | WT: 212 | Class: Junior
South Carolina State has been an FCS pipeline to the NFL for 10 years. Shaquille Leonard, Javon Hargrave And the most recent Cobie Durant. Davis is expected extend this impressive streak. He averaged 20.4 yards per reception over his career, and has a diverse skill set. He is a match for defenders, regardless of whether he plays in the slot or out on the outside. He still has two more years of eligibility.
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 204 | Class: Senior
Bonds, a slim but powerful pass-catcher, has tallied 21 touchdowns in his last two seasons. This includes five over a stretch of four games to start last season. Although his 2019 production was not as impressive (70 catches and 943 receiving yards), his yards per catch average increased from 13.5 yards to 14.3 yards. He has worked his ways up the Pirates’ depth charts and is now one of the best wideouts in America.
HT: 6-foot-6 | WT: 272 | Class: Senior
Averett’s record-breaking season was last year with 51 catches, 876 yards, and 10 touchdown catches. He caught passes in his first college season. Lamar Jackson He was at Louisville in 2017. However, after nearly two years of being out of football and in a transfer portal, Averett became the Wildcats go-to target. Averett averaged 17.2 yards per reception and scored at least one touchdown in every game except three last season.
HT: 6-foot | WT: 188 | Class: Junior
Ibrahim was able to join the team prior to the 2019 season. He has taken full advantage. “The same hunger he had in the beginning has remained constant up to this point and it’s not surprising that he’s become a great player,” one coach stated. Ibrahim led the SWAC last year with 1,008 receiving yardage — his second consecutive 1,000-yard campaign — and ranked third in receiving touchdowns (eight) and third in catches (67).
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 280 | Class: Senior
Pryor was the core of one of the best defensive units in Division II ranks last season. Pryor broke out in 2019, with 25 tackles to loss and 13 tackles. He also had 6 sacks. In 2021, after the cancellation of the 2020 season, he would have 21.5 tackles to lose and 6 sacks. He has strong hands and quick first steps, making him a difficult task to block single blocks. His lower body strength allows him to hold firm against double-teams.
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 250 | Class: Senior
Farmer was cited by an opposing head coach as being one of the most under-the radar small-school prospects in America. Farmer, who had a 11.5-sack and 19 tackle-for loss season, was named the SIAC preseason Defensive player of the year. Farmer has an uncanny knack for disrupting the backfield and knows how to get to quarterbacks.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 260 | Class: Redshirt junior
Green’s hustle and playmaking abilities, as well as his ball pursuit, create infectious energy in South Carolina State’s defense. Green is also able to overcome blockers at point of attack using his strong hands. Green, a well-built and compact player, plays the strong-side defensive end position but can also serve as an outside linebacker. Green was the MEAC Preseason Defensive Player-of-the Year and had 19.5 tackles for losses.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 215 | Class: Senior
Lewis is a key part of the Jaguars pass rush. After a breakout spring 2021 season, Lewis won the Buck Buchanan Award for the country’s top FCS defensive player. He also was named SWAC Defensive Play of the Year. He also showed signs of the dominance last season, recording 10 tackles and 5.5sacks.
HT: 6-foot-5 | WT: 240 | Class: Junior
Anderson and Hue Jackson, the new Grambling head coach, have brought excitement to Grambling’s programs. Anderson was a sophomore and recorded a team record of five sacks as well as 7.5 tackles to loss. Anderson is still just scratching his surface and it is not surprising that he will find himself at the top this spring.
HT: 6-foot | WT: 235 | Class: Junior
Since his arrival on campus in 2019, Roberts has been the driving force behind Aggies’ defense. He is strong as a middle linebacker and plays aggressively against the running. He also has excellent coverage skills. Roberts is quick and instinctive at the second-level. He led the team in tackles for loss with 12 and five sacks. Roberts is a key player on special teams. Last year, his four blocked punts tied him for the most nationally.
HT: 6-foot-1 | WT: 210 | Class: Junior
Huggins began his career in Florida and moved to Garden City Junior College before finding a home at Jackson State. He finished his first season with 43 tackles and six pass breakups. This season, Huggins will be leading one of the FCS’s most talented secondary teams.
HT: 5-foot-10 | WT: 170 | Class: Graduate student
Smith is one the most experienced players in the nation. Smith, a former walk-on, has been a key fixture of the Rattlers’ offense. He is looking to return to his career-highs of 77 catches, 1,159 receiving yards, and touchdowns (11) in 2019.
HT: 5-foot-11 | WT: 223 | Class: Redshirt junior
Wilson is a strong, but not too bulky, runner who ranks among the top Division II rushers. After being named CIAA’s Rookie of The Year at Johnson C. Smith in 2019, Wilson transferred to the Wildcats. He averaged 119.3 yard per game and 5.7 yards a carry last season. He is a strong tackle-breaker and can make explosive runs in large groups.
HT: 5-foot-7 | WT: 175 | Class: Redshirt senior
Sheread was a Texas State transferee and led the nation with 19.9 yards per punt returned. He also served as the slot receiver on offense. In 2021, he was the leader of the team with nine receiving touchdowns. Sheread’s play strength and shiftiness make it difficult for opponents to slow him down.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 225 | Class: Senior
Miller was a Missouri transfer and former four star recruit. He led Jackson State to 109 tackles in his senior year. He is a physical tackler and can switch between defensive and linebacker in subpackages. However, he will likely play middle linebacker next season.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 185 | Class: Senior
Isaac has the physical characteristics that interest NFL scouts. Isaac hasn’t had an extremely productive season stat-wise since 2019. However, he shows great hips and willingness to tackle in run support. It’s up to him to bring it all together and make this climb to the top of these rankings.
HT: 5-foot-11 | WT: 285 | Class: Senior
Dumas, who followed coach Eric Dooley from Prairie View A&M over to Southern, may be undersized as an interior player, but his explosiveness jumps out on film. Dumas’s great leverage at the position is complemented by his strong hands and finishing abilities.
HT: 5-foot-11 | WT: 175 | Class: Junior
Bethune-Cookman’s bright spot was Hill-Robinson, who tied for the conference lead last year with four interceptions. He is a small but skilled corner, with quick feet and patience when he uses his press-man technique to the line. Hill-Robinson is going to have a tough task Week 1 matchup He will be facing Miami as a chance to show his skills against a Power 5 opponent.
HT: 6-foot-5 | WT: 190 | Class: Redshirt sophomore
Wideman, who transferred from Tennessee to Jackson State, burst onto Jackson State’s radar with 12 touchdown catches. Wideman was a threat in the redzone and on the field as a quarterback. Shedeur Sanders‘ No. 1 wideout.
HT: 6-foot | WT: 185 | Class: Senior
Scouts still wait for Warren’s breakthrough. He was a former top-ranked junior college player, but he did not show any signs of his next-level talent in 2021 spring. However, he was inconsistent with the Tigers last fall. Warren will likely take on some return duties in the fall.
HT: 6-foot-1 | WT: 310 | Class: Redshirt junior
Jones has been a steady anchor in the middle of his 1-technique spot. He stands primarily on Jones’ outside shoulder and is strong against the run. He stood out for me last season in the Tigers’. season-opener against Grambling And again during the midseason matchup with Eastern Illinois.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 175 | Class: Redshirt sophomore
Guthrie, who is tall and rangy, was one of the most surprising players in the MEAC last season. He tied for the conference lead with eight interceptions and eight passes defended. Guthrie has the potential to rise higher on this roster, thanks to his developing frame and three years remaining in eligibility.
HT: 5-foot-9 | WT: 170 | Class: Redshirt sophomore
After the 2019 season, Davis transferred to Cincinnati. He was an instant success for the Spartans in 2021. Davis had a MEAC record 887 rushing yardage and 10 touchdowns. His average of 7.2 yards per run was also a record for the FCS. This season has been marked by increased expectations after being voted MEAC Preseason Offensive Player-of-the Year.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 295 | Class: Redshirt senior
Williams has shown improvement in the defense of the Hornets each season. Although he only had 2.5 sacks last season, that doesn’t reflect the amount of pressure he places on his opponents. With 11.5 tackles for losses, he ranked third in MEAC and plans to continue that feat as a senior.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 195 | Class: Junior
Richard is the only QB on this list. He enters a crucial junior year that could lead to him becoming a top-tier FCS signaler. The poised pocket-passer is able to win with both his arms (15 passing touchdowns), and his legs (8 rushing touchdowns). His completion rate jumped from 52% and 58% from his freshman to second season. Also, his TD-INT ratio increased from 12-to-9 a to 15-to-6.
HT: 5-foot-11 | WT: 195 | Class: Redshirt sophomore
Sanders left South Carolina to transfer after the 2020 season. His hard-hitting physicality is evident on tape. He proved to be an important player in coverage as he tied for the conference-lead with interceptions (44) last year.
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 265 | Class: Senior
Brokenburr is an excellent strong-side defensive end who can overcome blockers with his powerful hands. He is a solid and promising run defender. However, he still needs to learn more pass-rush moves.
HT: 5-foot-8 | WT: 170 | Class: Junior
Codrington is an outside corner who has a lot of speed and interesting physical characteristics. Codrington was also a great return specialist, with an average of 22.5 yards per kickoff and 15 yards per punch — third in FCS.
HT: 6-foot-1 | WT: 220 | Class: Senior
Green quickly established himself to be one of Eddie George’s best players. Green plays primarily at Will’s linebacker spot. However, he is frequently used as a Blitzer and recorded seven losses last season. Because he is a fluid mover and can cover ground, his coverage skills stand out.
HT: 5-foot-8 | WT: 182 | Class: Senior
The younger brother Tampa Bay Buccaneers corner Carlton Davis IIIIrshaad has been a key player in the Hornets defense. He is a great blitzer and displays a lot physicality. His impact from the slot is maximized and he will be a leading member of Alabama State’s defense.
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 340 | Class: Senior
After spending time at Hutchinson Community College, Kansas (Kansas), Lacey anchored Tennessee State’s offensive front, specifically at left guard, since joining the school in 2019. He is at his best when he runs open run lanes inside. Scouts would like to see him improve his pass protection.
HT: 5-foot-9 | WT: 180 | Class: Redshirt senior
Bohler is a big ball magnet, despite being small. Last season, he was tied for eighth in passes defensed (16) as well as eighth in interceptions (4). Bohler may be able to play as a valuable nickel corner in the future. He is also a core special teams player.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 190 | Class: Junior
Davis is a tall, fast player who has a lot to offer and continues a long line of productive defenders within this program. He’s a standout. Celebration Bowl Victory over Jackson State (including a fumble recover).
HT: 5-foot-9 | WT: 205 | Class: Junior
The Delta Devils were pleased to welcome Johnson back last season. He became the first running back since 1999 with over 1,000 rushing yards (1.004). He is a smooth, fluid rusher and could easily climb the record books if they build on his 2021 season of 91.3 yards per week.
HT: 6-foot-6 | WT: 305 | Class: Senior
Lee started his career at North Carolina Central and has since been a reliable pass protector for the Aggies. After gaining experience as a right tackle in his first two seasons, he switched to the left. Lee still has plenty of room in his frame, and could be an interesting developmental prospect if his strength and consistency as a run-blocker improve.
HT: 5-foot-9 | WT: 180 | Class: Senior
Savage was second in the MEAC with 10 passes defended and three interceptions. Although he is confident on the outside, Savage will be considered a nickel corner at next level.
HT: 5-foot-10 | WT: 190 | Class: Student in graduate program
Cornerback Joshua Williams Fayetteville State’s original draftee since 1976. Barnes-Brown stood in his way, making his presence felt with eight pass breaksups and five interceptions.
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 235 | Class: Junior
Godbolt’s performance improved over the 2021 season. He recorded 11.5 of his 12.5 tackles to loss in the Bulldogs’ last six games. Although the explosive, lanky edge rusher is still trying to figure out how to best utilize his tools, he can continue building on that momentum with more reps.
HT: 6-foot-2 | WT: 205 | Class: Senior
Deion Sanders considered the Florida State transfer a breakout candidate. The Florida State transfer is already one the most talented special-teams playmakers. He was responsible for two touchdowns and his kickoff return of 36.9 yards topped the FCS and FBS. With De’Jahn Warren And Travis Hunter Bolden is expected to start in the corner.
HT: 6-foot-8 | WT: 335 | Class: Senior
Dunkwah has shown improvements in his physicality as a running blocker but his pass-protecting abilities remain a work in progress. He is still a solid player and his physical traits and size are obvious.
HT: 6-foot-1 | WT: 210 | Class: Junior
Beard’s first season as a full time starting middle linebacker was his breakout season. He was the team’s leader in tackles (78), sacks (five), and his 8.5 tackles to loss. Beard is a keystay on special teams, where he helped the unit to finish second in blocked punts.
HT: 5-foot-10 | WT: 175 | Class: Senior
Morsell played his first three seasons at Bowie State, before moving to Southern. He was the CIAA Defensive Player-of-the-Year in 2019, recording nine interceptions. But he has suffered injuries ever since. Morsell was the recipient of five pass breaks in 11 games last season.
HT: 6-foot-3 | WT: 240 | Class: Senior
McDaniel was an instant star in 2019, but he was forced to withdraw from the 2020 season due to injuries. He played only five games last season because of his injury. McDaniel recorded 4.5 tackles to loss and four sacks during those five games. He hopes to be healthy enough to continue to make an impact on the Aggies’ defensive line as he returns to play for them in a fifth season.
HT: 5-foot-11 | WT: 188 | Class: Senior
Murray hopes to build on a successful junior season, in which he accumulated 629 receiving yards with seven touchdowns. Murray showed great potential for big plays and displayed strong hands and good body control at catch point. He scored five times in the final four games.
HT: 5-foot-9 | WT: 190 | Class: Senior
Gibbs decided to return to Raleigh after experimenting with the transfer portal for a while. Gibbs is a strong runner who emphasizes defenses. He ran for 948 yards in 2021 and six touchdowns. Scouts are looking to Gibbs for explosive plays and the ability to avoid safety nets at the third level.
HT: 5-foot-9 | WT: 165 | Class: Senior
Evelyn is electrifying for the Dragons in many areas. The return specialist and receiver led the SIAC with 1,624 all purpose yards last season. His ability to make explosive plays and speed have been consistent throughout his career.
HT: 6-foot | WT: 250 | Class: Senior
Thomas was the defensive leader last year, recording a team record of 6.5 sacks. Thomas is a strong, compact pass-rusher and has some versatility.
HT: 5-foot-11 | WT: 205 | Class: Senior
Hagans began slow in 2021, but picked up steam as the stretch went on. Hagans’ performance included a 199-yard run. against reigning conference champion Bowie State last October. He was strong and fast, and he was reportedly timed in the low 4.4s for the 40-yard sprint in front of Scouts last spring. Many conference attendees believe that he could produce more this year, despite his modest production.