Roughly 1.6% of all NCAA football players ever set foot in the NFL, according to the league’s own statistics. It’s a tough climb for anyone, but it can feel even steeper at historically Black colleges (HBCUs) such as Morgan State University. Fans wonder if under-the-radar talents can really grab the attention of pro scouts when so many marquee programs dominate the news cycle. There’s no doubt that star players from big-name schools often hold a spotlight, but the HBCU football world has plenty of potential. Morgan’s Hughes Memorial Stadium has hosted many hopefuls who dream of making that leap into the pro ranks, all while the game’s competitive environment grows more intense every year.
Setting Up the Odds and Early Dreams
Many fans gauge a team’s chances through betting lines, with favored squads often sitting around -150 while underdogs might get tagged at +600. Those figures can differ on a new betting site, especially when it comes to HBCU underdogs that catch fire mid-season. As Lewis Humphries states, sports betting is now legal in 38 states, making it more popular than ever.
It’s one thing to talk about final scores, but it’s another to see those numbers shift when a Morgan State wide receiver racks up a huge game or a safety pulls off a pick-six. Mentioning those who become the elite is the reason many supporters place bets. They like the thrill of spotting an unexpected standout who can turn a simple weekend matchup into a highlight-reel performance.
Morgan’s Standout Names and Tough Road Ahead
Morgan’s own Jordan Toles and Noah Washington are among those aiming for that professional breakthrough. Toles, originally a top recruit, has the physical tools and an aggressive on-field style that could pique NFL interest. Though he’s been on track for free agency, there’s still chatter about what he brings to a squad. Baltimore decided to waive him after signing a veteran safety, but that doesn’t necessarily slam the door shut—there’s always a chance another franchise will take a chance on an undrafted prospect.
Current Landscape for HBCU Players in the League
As of now, there are only 20 active players in the NFL who launched their journeys at an HBCU. A prime example is Joshua Miles, an offensive tackle who went from Morgan State to the New York Giants in 2019. Alfonzo Graham also stands out, having moved from Morgan’s gridiron to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad in 2023. That small group carries the banner for HBCUs on football’s biggest stage. It’s also a reminder that scouts still have a habit of zeroing in on larger conference teams first, possibly overlooking solid athletes in HBCU ranks.
The rarity of HBCU signings isn’t just anecdotal. Draft day has seen fewer picks out of these programs in recent seasons. In 2023, only one HBCU player (Isaiah Bolden from Jackson State) got drafted, going in the seventh round. And in 2024, not a single pick originated from an HBCU roster. Some see that as proof of an ongoing decline. Others suggest it’s a dip and believe that improved exposure will reverse the trend. Coaches at HBCUs feel that the bigger story is how many players still find paths to the pros via undrafted free agency, though it’s hard to ignore how hard it can be to get a GM or scout to sign on the dotted line.
The Stage of the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl
The Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl is one of the best chances for HBCU athletes to wow NFL scouts. This postseason game includes seniors from across historically Black colleges and universities, giving them a final shot to show the best they’ve got. It’s not just about winning or losing; it’s about using the field as a showcase for speed, strength, and technique. Morgan State’s wide receiver, Treyveon Pratt, will appear in 2024, eager to prove he can shine against top-tier competition.
Shifting Attention to HBCU Super Bowl Champions
HBCU greats have made their mark on the professional stage more often than folks might realize. It’s a list of athletes who showed that strong fundamentals and a fearless mindset can carry them straight to a championship parade. Such success stories are a beacon of hope for current prospects who see a path—though slim—that can reach the pinnacle of pro football.
Zero Draft Picks in 2024 and What It Means
When 257 names were called in the 2024 NFL Draft, none came from an HBCU. That marks the second time in four years—following 2021—that zero players were taken from these schools. The numbers had been trending downward: from 2014 to 2019, 20 HBCU players heard their names on draft day, which comes out to around three per year. But from 2020 onward, only six have made it. The 2022 draft offered a glimmer of hope, with four players selected, including one from a Division II HBCU. Yet that optimism faded again in 2023 and 2024.
HBCUs, Visibility, and the NFL’s Larger Challenge
Many question whether the NFL is truly dedicated to drafting from HBCUs or if it’s mostly lip service. The league has introduced initiatives like the Legacy Bowl and HBCU-focused events, but the draft results aren’t matching the narrative of growing interest. Some alumni say these short-term gestures feel more like publicity than genuine investment. They suggest that more consistent campus visits, bigger financial support, and broader media coverage would make a real difference.
Hoping for Better Numbers Down the Road
Coaches such as Damon Wilson talk about how the media spotlight on HBCUs has widened, and players like Toles and Pratt continue to sharpen their skills for upcoming seasons. Deion Sanders’ time at Jackson State proved that an HBCU program can grab a national platform. Despite hurdles, the morale among players remains strong, especially with events like the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl showcasing their raw ability. Pro scouts still show up, and the NFL’s 53-man rosters always need fresh talent.
