Infamously, no historically black college or university (HBCU) prospect was selected in the 2021 NFL Draft. However, there was a four-player rebound last cycle. But the 2023 NFL Draft could have even more talented HBCU prospects hearing their names called in April, with others signing UDFA deals shortly after.
HBCU prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft
Thanks to the likes of former NFL stars turned head coaches (such as Jackson State’s Deion Sanders), NFL draft analysts (such as ESPN’s Jordan Reid), and countless others behind the scenes, HBCUs have received an increasing amount of coverage and attention on the college and draft stages.
In fact, the Shrine Bowl 1000 (25) and Reese’s Senior Bowl Watchlist (14) highlighted HBCU athletes leading up to the 2022 season. But countless others deserve recognition. Here are the top HBCU prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Isaiah Land, EDGE, Florida A&M
As the reigning Buck Buchanan Award winner, given to the nation’s top defensive player in the FCS, there were high expectations for Isaiah Land. After securing a nation-leading 19 sacks and 25.5 tackles for loss in 2021, his six and nine, respectively, this year are a bit underwhelming on the surface.
But when you dig deeper, it’s actually impressive. Land missed much of spring practice with a hip injury, was ruled ineligible for Week 0 due to administrative errors, and was out in Week 7 with a knee injury.
Land has the lateral agility, flexibility, get-off, short-area burst, overall speed, and bend to threaten the edge — in the FCS and the pros. According to Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List, the FAMU EDGE has recorded a 4.6 40-yard dash and 10’9″ broad jump at 6’4″ and 225 pounds — although he may be even lighter.
That’s the biggest issue with Land’s draft profile — his size, or lack thereof. PFN Draft Analyst Tony Pauline stated some scouts had Land weighing 10-15 pounds less. At that weight, NFL teams would almost assuredly move him to an off-ball linebacker role, and we just haven’t seen Land there before.
Nevertheless, Land has the athleticism and tape to be a weapon as a pass rusher. It’s up to the franchise that selects him to set him up for success and unlock his full potential. Where he goes in the draft depends on his final weigh-in and athletic testing, but don’t be mistaken — Land is an NFL player.
Mark Evans II, OT, Arkansas-Pine Bluff
The last time Arkansas-Pine Bluff had a player chosen in the NFL draft? 2013. The drought ends in April.
Mark Evans II is in his fourth year starting for the Lions, earning all-conference honors the last two seasons. He’s nimble on his feet with strong hands to deaden rushes in their tracks. But his most enticing trait is his mobility — Evans can work to the second level while also being able to set against speed rushers.
At a listed 6’4″ and 295 pounds, Evans may have to kick into guard at the next level. Regardless, his physical tools will entice decision-makers. And with a solid performance on the all-star circuit, Evans could be the first HBCU player selected in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Jordan Lewis, EDGE, Southern
Since suffering a lower-body injury in Week 5, Jordan Lewis has been relegated to part-time play. Still, his career body of work is that of one of the top edge rushers in the country. He’s generated 10+ tackles for loss and 5+ sacks in every season since 2019.
Lewis became the first-ever SWAC player to win the Buchanan Award in the 2021 spring season, highlighting his peak potential. Yet, much like Land, his draft prospects are a bit in the air at a listed 6’3″ and 223 pounds. But unlike Land, we’ve seen Lewis at off-ball LB this year — and he’s looked good.
The production, intangibles, and athleticism are there for him to make it to the NFL. The only question is, can he switch positions and remain effective?
Kemari Averett, TE, Bethune-Cookman
A 6’6″, 250-pound TE that can stretch the field vertically? Sign me up. Kemari Averett transferred from Louisville two seasons ago and has ravaged defenses since. Not only does he win inline, in the slot, or even out wide, but Averett has enough wiggle and long-strider speed to pick up yards after the catch.
With how the NFL is evolving, tight ends that are weapons in the passing game are extremely valuable. Averett shouldn’t have to wait too long to hear his name called in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Joshua Pryor, DL, Bowie State
Over 49 career games, Joshua Pryor has racked up 77 tackles for loss and 32 sacks. Sure, it’s been against D2 competition, but he can play the men across from him. And Pryor has made it clear that he’s on another level.
He’s still growing into his NFL build (6’4″, 225, 33″ arms) but already wins with his blend of speed and power. Add in his violent hands and imposing lower-body strength, and Pryor deserves a selection in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Shaquan Davis, WR, South Carolina State
Shaquille Leonard. Javon Hargrave. Decobie Durant. What do all those names have in common? They are South Carolina State alum selected in the NFL draft. And with another impressive season, Shaq Davis should join them in 2023.
Davis has impressed with every opportunity he has received, announcing his presence to the national audience vs. Jackson State in the 2021 Celebration Bowl. At 6’4″ and 210+ pounds with speed to spare, he’s an instant mismatch for DBs.
The numbers back it up as well: 20.6 career yards-per-catch average, 43.5% contested-catch rate, and 95 of his 123 career receptions gained a first down or touchdown.
Jadakis Bonds, WR, Hampton
Jadakis Bonds is a thin 6’4″, but that hasn’t stopped him from bullying his opponents to the tune of 32 touchdowns in 37 career games. He boxes DBs out like a basketball player and rises above the rim easily.
With plus body control, long speed, and ball tracking, Bonds pairs his red-zone-friendly size with immense downfield potential. The Shrine Bowl took notice of Bonds’ abilities, and he accepted his invitation to the all-star contest.
Aubrey Miller Jr., LB, Jackson State
There’s playing with your head on fire, and there’s Aubrey Miller. The Jackson State LB plays with a controlled violence that simply overwhelms opponents. He’s been the heart and soul of the Tigers’ defense the last two years, and he recently accepted his invitation to the Senior Bowl.
Fill lanes in the box? Check. Blitz off the edge? Check. Drop into zone and keep passes in front of him? Check. You name it, Miller can do it — and do it well.
De’Jahn Warren and Isaiah Bolden, CB, Jackson State
With all the hype surrounding true freshman top-five recruit Travis Hunter, De’Jahn Warren seemed to get lost in the shuffle. But he found his home in Week 4 and on, showcasing his next-level potential.
Warren sports excellent balance and fluidity at 6’1″ and 190 pounds, providing a stout foundation for a sticky corner. He hasn’t forfeited a TD this season, and he’s never allowed a pass longer than 35 yards while at Jackson State.
Isaiah Bolden is a bigger-bodied defender (6’2″, 205), but he is an electric athlete. He has manned the slot while also serving as the primary kick returner, taking two to the house last year. This is his first collegiate season with significant starting snaps on defense, but you couldn’t tell by his play.
Jeblonski Green and Patrick Godbolt, EDGE, South Carolina State
The top HBCU EDGE duo resides in Orangeburg. Jeblonski Green and Patrick Godbolt have terrorized the SWAC the past couple of years, and both have NFL potential.
Green is a wide-bodied thumper at 6’3″ and 265 pounds. If he gets inside your chest, you may as well count the rep as a loss. On the other hand, Godbolt is long and explosive, providing a higher pass-rush ceiling. Still, he is a bit less refined than Green, occasionally relying on his tools over technique.
BJ Bohler, CB, Florida A&M
Safety Markquese Bell signed as an undrafted rookie with the Dallas Cowboys and is still on the team. CB BJ Bohler could have similar success. He may only be 5’9″ and 180 pounds, but Bohler is a certified playmaker on the outside. Don’t take my word for it: He’s had five picks and 18 PBUs over the last two years.
Even if NFL teams force him to move into the slot, Bohler has the short-area burst to match two-way go’s, as well as the understanding of leverage and eye discipline, to hold his own. And he’s a dependable special-teams player to boot!
Sundiata Anderson, DL, Grambling State
Grambling State moved from a 3-3-5 scheme to a more traditional 4-3 this summer, unleashing Sundiata Anderson. He has thrived on pinning his ears back and rushing off the edge as a 5-technique.
With prototypical NFL size (6’5″ and 240 pounds), athleticism, and strong hands, it’s no wonder he’s wrecked FCS-level opponents. We knew Anderson was a plus-run defender, attacking blocks and wrenching himself free or creating space for teammates to make plays. But he’s exhibited his pass-rush potential this season with seven sacks.
Jason Dumas, DL, Southern
Aaron Donald is one of one, but there’s no denying the similarities when you watch the undersized Jason Dumas destroy offensive line after offensive line. Injuries have slowed him down after transferring to Southern from PVAMU, but his production speaks for itself.
Across 42 career games, Dumas has amassed 49.5 tackles for loss, 22.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles. 5’10” and 280 pounds is not a build conducive to NFL success. However, Dumas makes up for it with a superb get-off, natural leverage, and rapid hands.
Brandon Barnes-Brown, CB, Fayetteville State
The last cycle, Joshua Williams became Fayetteville State’s first drafted player since 1976. And fellow cornerback Brandon Barnes-Brown looks to join him in the league in 2023.
Teams tested Barnes-Brown last season with Williams shutting down the other side, but the teacher soon became the student. Barnes-Brown is a ball hawk outside, with 13 career INTs and 30 pass deflections. And recovery speed and fluidity offer him full range on the back end.
Xavier Smith and Jah’Marae Sheread, WR, Florida A&M
Xavier Smith won’t win many contested battles, but he doesn’t have to. He beats DBs with slippery route running and speed. Additionally, his lateral quickness and start/stop ability make him deadly in the open field. He’s best when deployed in the slot, and that’s likely where NFL teams will keep him.
Jah’Marae Sheread is the definition of a weapon, ripping opponents as a receiver and a kick/punt returner. His 5’7″ frame caps his ceiling, but he owns game-altering speed and shiftiness with the ball in his hands.
Andrew Farmer, EDGE, Lane
Andrew Farmer is a proportioned 6’3″ and 250 pounds with effective length and excellent speed. In just the last two seasons, he tormented opponents for 44 tackles for loss and 17.5 sacks.
On the field-goal unit (bonus points for special-teams experience), Farmer nearly tracked down a DB from across the field who scored on a blocked kick. He has the range to flow sideline to sideline, as well as the get-off to penetrate the pocket quickly.
Keenan Isaac and Irshaad Davis, DB, Alabama State
Keenan Isaac’s size (6’3″, 190) and physicality will draw interest, but he also moves exceptionally well. He’s quick to react/break in coverage, owning the fluidity required to flip his hips out of his backpedal. Moreover, Isaac is willing and able in run support, using his smothering length to great effect.
Tampa Bay Buccanneers CB Carlton Davis III’s younger brother, Irshaad Davis, makes plays all over the field. He’s seen 600+ snaps in the box and at deep safety over his career, even 200+ from the slot.
Since 2021, Davis has registered 10 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, three INTs, and nine PBUs. That versatility and production, paired with his football IQ and movement skills, will make Davis a coveted commodity.
Darrian Brokenburr, EDGE, Howard
Standing 6’4″ and 260 pounds, Darrian Brokenburr is an easy projection as a 4-3 defensive end. He shocks opponents with powerful hands, setting the edge and pushing the pocket all the same.
Inconsistencies as a tackler and with his hands as a pass rusher are notable, but Brokenburr already plays off contact well and is relentless in pursuit. With some seasoning, he can be a tremendous asset off the edge.
Jermaine McDaniel Jr., EDGE, North Carolina A&T
Injuries have limited Jermaine McDaniel Jr. this year, but when he’s been on the field, he’s showcased attractive attributes. He’s quick off the line with sufficient bend to beat tackles around the arc. His red-hot motor might be genetic, as he’s the great-nephew of former Baltimore Ravens fullback Vonta Leach.
Regardless, health will factor into McDaniel’s draft status, as will his lack of film (he hasn’t played 200+ snaps since 2019). But what he has put on film is enough to warrant an opportunity in the pros.
Omari Hill-Robinson, CB, Bethune-Cookman
Snatching eight interceptions in two years will get you on the NFL’s radar, but Omari Hill-Robinson isn’t just a ball hawk. Despite his slender frame, Hill-Robinson stays low in his stance and is an easy mover, allowing him to stay in phase and maintain proper leverage.
Jacob Roberts, LB, North Carolina A&T
Whatever you need Jacob Roberts to do, he will get it done. Across three seasons as the leader of NC A&T’s defense, Roberts has proven to be a reliable tackler, stout run stuffer (28.5 TFLs), impressive pass rusher (9.5 sacks), and solid coverage defender (five INTs and 10 pass deflections).
Heck, Roberts is even a standout special-teamer with six blocked kicks since 2021. His trigger and instincts at 6’1″ and 235 pounds make him a disruptive force at the second level.
John Huggins, S, Jackson State
John Huggins (6’2″, 205) typically plays in the box as a downhill enforcer. His sure tackling and ability to generate pressures off blitzes make him a prime candidate as a box add-on or slot defender in the NFL. And he isn’t a liability in coverage, notching nine pass deflections in the last two years.
Anim Dankwah, OT, Howard
Listed 6’8″ and 365 pounds, Anim Dankwah is a brick wall at left tackle. That overwhelming size comes with its downsides, especially in pass protection (high pad level and capped mobility). But Dankwah is a mauler on the ground, has an obvious length advantage, and has enough foot speed to reach his sets.
Keyron Kinsler Jr., DB, Alcorn State
Nicknamed “The Hitman,” Keryon Kinsler Jr. is a relative of Kam Chancellor and the key to Alcorn State’s defense. He flies around the field at 5’11” and 185 pounds, displaying a vaunted downhill trigger and closing speed.
A mainstay in the lineup since 2019, Kinsler is also a special-teams ace for the Braves. With a bevy of career snaps in the box, at deep safety, and in the slot, Kinsler is the complete defensive package.
Emanuel Wilson, RB, Fort Valley State
There aren’t many 6’1″ and 220-pound rushers on the D2 level. And there sure isn’t another that moves as well as Emanuel Wilson. Wilson runs behind his pads and stocky build, frequently breaking arm tackles and pushing piles. And he is just as adept at reading his blocks and dashing through holes.
After averaging a stellar 119.3 yards per game and 5.7 per carry last season, Wilson has somehow turned it up a notch in 2022, reaching 139.1 and 6.8, respectively.
Davius Richard, QB, North Carolina Central
Davius Richard is the only HBCU QB I believe has a shot at being selected in the 2023 NFL Draft — if he declares as a junior.
He’s a well-built 6’3″ and 215-pound dual-threat that can gash defenses with his legs or take the top off with his arm. Standing tall in the pocket comes naturally, and he has improved his accuracy year after year.
Richard has the tools to receive NFL attention. And even despite needing to clean up his release, footwork, and weight transfer, his arm talent rushing ability are alluring traits.
Alfonzo Graham, RB, Morgan State
Listed at 5’9″ and 180 pounds, Alfonzo Graham is a diminutive running back, but don’t let that fool you. He plays with a low center of gravity and is shifty in the open field. That’s why Morgan State tries to get the ball whenever possible, utilizing him as a kick returner on top of his offensive production.
It’s easy to overlook Graham — literally — but his blend of speed, vision, and sheer willpower is attractive. All he needs is one team to give him an opportunity.
Dallas Daniels and Shane Hooks, WR, Jackson State
Shedeur Sanders is the prized gem at Jackson State, but his top two receivers have made his life easier. Shane Hooks is the primary red-zone weapon at 6’4″ with a long wingspan, but his film is littered with spectacular catches. While skying over smaller defenders has been the name of his game, he’s no slouch as a route runner and owns sure hands.
Daniels is the more all-around pass catcher, as he’s able to win with long speed and easy acceleration. He’s aggressive at the catch point, often coming down with contest targets. And he has the wiggle to be a threat after the catch.
Jarveon Howard, RB, Alcorn State
Jarveon Howard transferred to Alcorn State following four years as a backup at Syracuse, and he’s taken the SWAC by storm. A 299-yard, 4-TD performance vs. UAPB in Week 4 highlights an outstanding season overall for the Braves RB.
He has the contact balance to withstand blows around the line of scrimmage and in the open field, breaking tackles on his way to paydirt. Howard is also a solid pass blocker, which will add to his three-down potential. And although he’s only recorded 116 receiving yards in his career, he’s caught all 18 targets.
Corey Bullock and Robert Mitchell, OL, North Carolina Central
NCCU has a pair of offensive linemen that could earn selections in the 2023 NFL Draft. Robert Mitchell tore his knee last season and has returned even stronger. Since transferring from JUCO in 2019, he has yet to allow a sack with the Eagles and is arguably their best run blocker. Mitchell is a tank on the interior with experience at both guard positions and center.
Starting left tackle Corey Bullock shares a similar level of versatility, owning 100+ career snaps at every OL position except center. He has the requisite size (6’4″, 315) and mobility to be a project swing tackle at the next level.
Christian Brown, CB, Howard
Howard quietly owns one of the best CB duos across all HBCUs in Christian Brown and Robert Jones III. While the latter isn’t draft-eligible just yet, the former is — and he deserves more attention. Brown is one of the more consistent and smooth corners I’ve seen on the FCS level.
He makes up for what he lacks in elite physical tools with technique and patience. The tape doesn’t lie, and Brown hasn’t allowed a TD since he was with Princeton last season. Measurables will hinder his draft status, but there is little else to dislike about his profile.
KeShaun Moore, DL, Hampton
After being a strictly outside-the-tackle edge rusher last year, KeShaun Moore put on muscle mass and has played all over the defensive line for Hampton. He is a force wherever he lines up, stunning blockers at the point of attack and exploding toward ball carriers.
With violent hands, underrated athleticism, and sought-after versatility, Moore is a name to know heading into the 2023 NFL Draft.
Jeremiah Owens, EDGE, Kentucky State
Kentucky State hasn’t had a player drafted since 2001. And while Jeremiah Owens may not end that trend in 2023, he should garner an NFL opportunity. His long 6’3″ and 230-pound frame comes equipped with a jetpack on his back.
Owens slices through the line of scrimmage at a torrid pace and can chase down runners from across the field. He is raw, which is to be expected from a D2 prospect, but he racked up 17.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks this season. The tools are there for NFL coaches to mold Owens into an effective player.
Romell Harris-Freeman, DB, Delaware State
You won’t see many 6’4″ DBs, let alone one that moves as smoothly as Romell Harris-Freeman. His length is a nightmare for WRs and QBs to contend with, severely decreasing throwing windows. He’s seen time at outside corner, in the slot, and as a deep/box safety.
Teams should attempt to convert him into a full-time corner, as his combination of size and movement skills is rare. Worst-case scenario, he reverts back to a versatile safety that plays with a nasty demeanor.
Other Hbcu Prospects To Know in the 2023 NFL Draft
- Stephan Pierre, LB, Albany State
- Devin Cowan, EDGE, Fayetteville State.
- Robert Lacey, OL, Tennessee State
- Brandon Savage, CB, Norfolk State
- Ronnie Thomas, EDGE, Mississippi State Valley
- Ricky Lee, OT, North Carolina A&T
- Javan Morgan, S, FAMU
- Sidney Gibbs, RB, Shaw
- Raydarius Freeman, EDGE, Chowan
- Shilo Sanders, S, Jackson State
- Brooks Parker, LB, Delaware State
- Devin Harrell, EDGE, North Carolina A&T
- Justin Ragin, EDGE, Jackson State
- Troy James, DT, Praire View A&M
- Camron Peterson, DT, Southern
- Kailen Abrams, LB, Central State
- Antoine Murray, WR, Howard
- Colby Byrd, OL, Norfolk State
- Jordon Carty, OT, Bethune-Cookman
- Jalen Bell, DT, Mississippi Valley State
- Terray Jones, DT, Tennessee State
- Raymond Boone, CB, Bowie State
- Joseph Stuckey, LB, North Carolina A&T
- BJ Davis, LB, South Carolina State
- Nyles Gaddy, EDGE, Jackson State
- Jawain Granger, CB, Delaware State
- Abdul-Fatai Ibrahim, WR, Alabama A&M
- Josh Green, DB, Tennessee State
- Reggie Bryant, WR, Johnson C. Smith
- Keshane Hinckley, WR, Bowie State
- Isaiah Williams, DL, Delaware State
- Kai Gray, DB, Lincoln
- Matthew Foster, OL, Virginia State
- Jacory Rankin, WR, Mississippi Valley State
- Kolbi Lewis, G, Praire View A&M
- Gentle Hunt, DT, Florida A&M
- Mark Murphy, OL, Bowie State
- Darius Hagans, RB, Virginia State
- Joshua Reed, LB, Grambling State
- Tyler Moore, DB, Fort Valley State
