by HBCU Sports
The 2025 NFL Draft class features a strong cohort of HBCU prospects.
They each make their mark through dominant college performances, impressive pre-draft events, and eye-catching athletic testing.
Here’s a ranking and analysis of the top HBCU football players hoping to make the leap to the NFL this year.
Carson Vinson, OT, Alabama A&M
Vinson stands out as the premier HBCU prospect in this class. At 6-foot-6 and 305 pounds, he’s drawn comparisons to recent SWAC alumni who have succeeded in the NFL trenches. Scouts praise his agility, movement skills, and performance against FBS competition, most notably a strong showing versus Vanderbilt.
Vinson’s blend of size, technique, and athleticism has earned him sixth- and seventh-round grades, positioning him as the HBCU player most likely to be drafted. His solid Senior Bowl and NFL Combine performances further solidified his status as a late Day 3 pick or priority free agent.
Here is what The Athletic NFL Draft analyst Dane Brugler said about the top HBCU lineman in the draft from ‘The Beast’ draft guide:
“Vinson has some habits that must be fine-tuned before he is ready for NFL competition, but he has intriguing physical traits with the energy and desire to get the most out of his ability. There shouldn’t be an expectation of an immediate return on investment, but he is a worthy draft-and-develop lineman.”
Robert McDaniel, DB, Jackson State
McDaniel was the highest-rated prospect at the HBCU Combine, according to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, and is considered a “draftable player.” His athletic testing—4.55 in the 40-yard dash, 38.5″ vertical, and 10.8′ broad jump— impressed scouts. On the field, McDaniel anchored a championship defense, notching three interceptions in 2024, including two in the SWAC title game. His versatility and physicality make him a valuable late-round target for teams seeking depth and special teams impact.
Jada Byers, RB, Virginia Union
Byers is a two-time CIAA Offensive Player of the Year and Virginia Union’s all-time leading rusher, with 6,080 career yards. Despite a modest 40-yard dash (4.84), his on-field agility, vision, and change-of-direction skills have kept him on NFL radars. Byers also offers special teams value, which could help him stick as a priority free agent or training camp invite.
Joaquin Davis, WR, North Carolina Central
Davis turned heads at the HBCU Combine with a 4.44 40-yard dash—the fastest among all participants—plus a 40.5″ vertical. His college production (92 catches, 1,211 yards, 12 TDs) and athletic profile make him an intriguing developmental receiver for NFL teams. Davis is expected to be a priority free agent with a shot to make a roster. NFL.com draft analyst projects Davis to be selected in the seventh round by the Kansas City Chiefs
Elijah Williams, DL, Morgan State
Williams delivered one of the most dominant performances at the HBCU Combine and Legacy Bowl, exceeding expectations in both measurables and on-field drills. His combination of size, athleticism, and high-motor play has positioned him as a fringe draft pick, with a strong chance to be signed immediately after the draft.
FCS Football Central writer Gerald J. Huggins II said Williams has done everything right in the draft process to get an NFL shot, even if he doesn’t get selected.
While he is on the fringe of being drafted late, Williams has done everything right in his pre-draft process, positioning himself as a strong candidate for either a late-round selection or a priority free-agent signing.
Jeremiah Pruitte, TE, Florida A&M
Pruitte’s size and athleticism make him a developmental tight end prospect. Though underutilized in college, his strong showings at the HBCU Combine and Legacy Bowl have boosted his stock. He is projected as a priority free agent with upside.
Irv Mulligan, RB, Jackson State
Mulligan is another dynamic back who impressed in both the HBCU Legacy Bowl and Combine. His speed and versatility as a runner and returner make him a strong candidate for a camp invite and possible roster spot. Huggins said Mulligan will have to prove he’s done enough to crack what is a deep running back class.
“His main challenge is breaking into a deep running back class, but his versatility and skill set give him a chance to make an impact at the next level,” said Huggins.
Kendall Bohler, CB, Florida A&M
Bohler’s coverage skills and athleticism have stood out in pre-draft events, making him a potential late-round pick or priority free agent for teams seeking secondary depth.
Carlvainsky Decius, DB, Morgan State
Decius rebounded from a tough HBCU Combine with a strong Legacy Bowl week, showcasing his potential in drills and scrimmages. He’ll need a strong pro day to solidify his standing, but teams value his upside as a developmental defensive back.
Fred Stokes Jr., Edge, Prairie View A&M
Stokes flashed pass-rush potential during the HBCU Legacy Bowl and Combine. His length and athleticism give him a chance to carve out a role as a situational edge rusher at the next level.
Top 10 HBCU Prospects for 2025 NFL Draft
| Rank | Player | Position | School | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carson Vinson | OT | Alabama A&M | 6th-7th Round |
| 2 | Robert McDaniel | DB | Jackson State | Late Round/Priority FA |
| 3 | Jada Byers | RB | Virginia Union | Free Agent/Camp Invite |
| 4 | Joaquin Davis | WR | NC Central | Late Round/Priority Free Agent |
| 5 | Elijah Williams | DL | Morgan State | Late Round/Priority FA |
| 6 | Jeremiah Pruitte | TE | Florida A&M | Priority Free Agent/Camp Invite |
| 7 | Irv Mulligan | RB | Jackson State | Priority Free Agent/Camp Invite |
| 8 | Kendall Bohler | CB | Florida A&M | Priority Free Agent/Camp Invite |
| 9 | Carlvainsky Decius | DB | Morgan State | Priority Free Agent/Camp Invite |
| 10 | Fred Stokes Jr. | Edge | Prairie View A&M | Priority Free Agent/Camp Invite |