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2026 NFL Draft Preview: Top 10 HBCU stars who could hear their names called

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The Times Of Indiapublisher-detail-arrow
22nd August, 2025 19:11 IST
The new college football season is about to begin, and excitement is very high. On Saturday, the 2025 schedule kicks off with the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge between North Carolina Central and Southern at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta (7:30 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN App).


The NFL has made considerable efforts in recent years to spotlight athletes from HBCUs. Many young athletes have displayed their ability due to events like the Senior Bowl HBCU Combine and the HBCU Legacy Bowl. After no HBCU players were drafted in 2024, Alabama A&M’s Carson Vinson made headlines when the Baltimore Ravens picked him in the 5th round of the 2025 draft.


Top 10 HBCU draft prospects to watch in 2026

Now, eyes turn to the 2026 class, which looks stronger. Scouts, coaches, and evaluators have already shared their notes. Here are the top 10 HBCU draft prospects for 2026.


1. Bruno Onwuazor , OT, Virginia State

At 6-foot-7, 351 pounds, Bruno Onwuazor is a massive presence. A former basketball player from Nigeria, he only began playing football in college, but has quickly turned heads. Scouts say his size and movement make him a real NFL prospect.


One AFC scout told ESPN: “I don’t think he’s quite as polished with his hands as [Carson] Vinson from last year, but he’s a better overall athlete.”




2. Joanes Fortilien, WR, Jackson State

Joanes Fortilien is a 6-foot-4 receiver with a big frame and strong hands. He scored 11 touchdowns in 2024 and remains a top target. His strength in the red zone is clear.


A scout said, “I watched him in the bowl game and [South Carolina State] had no answer for him. Speed will be the big question that he has to answer, but I liked his hands, frame and mentality on tape.”


3. Erick Hunter, LB, Morgan State

Erick Hunter missed most of 2024 with injury but is now healthy. Known as the heartbeat of his defense, he’s a rangy linebacker who plays fast and aggressively. He led the MEAC in tackles in 2023. Scouts say he could surprise people if he stays healthy.




4. Ashton Grable, OT/G, Florida A&M

Ashton Grable has shifted from tackle to guard and has become a reliable interior lineman. Strong, steady, and dependable, he’s the Rattlers’ go-to blocker. Scouts even see him as a possible future center at the NFL level.




5. Ckelby Givens, Edge, Southern
Ckelby Givens ended 2024 on fire, putting up 12 sacks. His quick first step and hand power make him dangerous off the edge. Run defense is his area to improve, but he’s already proven he can disrupt quarterbacks consistently.





6. Noah Miles, Edge, Howard
Noah Miles jumped from two sacks in 2023 to eight sacks in 2024. He has good length and solid technique. Scouts want to see him handle tougher competition, but his growth has been impressive.




7. Jeremiah Williams, DT, Jackson State
Last year, Jeremian Williams had 50 tackles and seven sacks; he is a potent inside defender. He performs both inside and outside, but he looks best as a 3-technique, where his agility really shines.


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8. Kevon King, RB, Norfolk State
King ran for 944 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. With new head coach Michael Vick bringing buzz to Norfolk State, King is another reason the team is being watched. Scouts want him more involved in the passing game.





9. Malcolm Reed , S, North Carolina Central

Reed, a tall, rangy safety at 6-foot-3, had two interceptions and broke up 11 passes in 2024. He frequently moved across the defense and was adaptable. Scouts find him quite appealing since he combines instincts with size.





10. Eden James, RB, Howard
Eden, Hall of Famer Edgerrin James's son, is quick and slick. Though rarely used last year, he made major plays every time he had the ball. Now that Howard's lead back, he can improve his draft value.




The 2026 NFL draft might mark a rebound year for HBCU players. This class is full of potential as names like Onwuazor and Fortilien spearhead a number of others poised to erupt. Multiple HBCU stars could hear their names called next April if a handful of these players stand out this autumn.

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