Black College Football 2012 NFL Draft Prospects Preview

Black College Football 2012 NFL Draft Prospects Preview 

With the highly anticipated NFL Draft event this weekend. Below are the players that stood out during the 2011 All-Star game & week and are expected to be drafted, signed as undrafted college free-agents or receive mini-camp try-outs. In last years NFL Draft, NY Jets Kenrick Ellis from Hampton, Detroit Lions JC Culbreath from SC State, Carolina Panthers Frank Kearse form Alabama A&M and Curtis Holcomb from FAMU were drafted. Another 36 Black College Football NFL prospects signed free agent contracts. 

-Christian Thompson, SS, SC State: Projected 3rd-5th Rd. Former Auburn player. Big hitter with great size & speed. Impressed at NFL Combine.

-Micah Pellerin, CB, Hampton: Projected 5th-6th Rd. Southern Miss transfer. Good size CB with good balance and awareness. Needs to get stronger.

-Adrian Hamilton, DE/LB, Prairie View A&M: Projected 5th-6th Rd. Texas Tech transfer. Dominated as senior. Pass rushing specialist that will have to convert to OLB in 3-4. SWAC Co-Def player of the year. 

-Chigbo Annunoby, DT, Morehouse: Projected 6th-7th Rd: Nice size DT than can play in a 3-4 or 4-3. Plays with good athleticism and strength. 

-Ryan Davis, DE/LB, Bethune-Cookman: Projected 5th-7th Rd. Versatile and smart player with good instincts.Should transition well to 3-4 LB. MEAC Def. Player of the year.  

-Donovan Robinson, DE/LB, Jackson State: Projected 5-7th R.: High motor and physical player. Can rush the passer and drop in coverage. 

-Mario Lewis, WR, Grambling State: Projected 7th-PFA. Nice size receiver with great body control and hands. Speed may keep him from getting drafted

-Donovan Richard, SS/LB: Projected 6th-PFA. hard-hitting and productive player. Fast enough to play safety. but scouts are concerned with his hips and feet to make the transition.  

-Charles Deas, DT, Shaw: Projected 6th-PFA. Former top 100 LSU recruit. Player with good size and strength. Doesn't always plays to his ability and will need to be more consistent at the next level. 

-LaQuinton Evans, WR, Southern: Projected: 6th-PFA. Fluid receiver with good hands. Quickly gets in and out of his breaks. Needs to get stronger for next level. 

-Antonio Dennard, CB, Langston: Projected: 6-PFA. Press corner with good coverage skills. late round sleeper.

-Dominique Ellis, FS, SC State: Projected 7th-PFA. NC State transfer. Versatile DB with good balls skills. good instincts and surprised scouts with his 4.5 speed on pro day. 

-Corey Hart, DE/LB, Alabama A&M: Projected 7th-PFA. Marshall transfer. very active DE that terrorized QB's in his only year in the SWAC. May fit better as a 4-3 LB because of his experience at Marshall.

-Marquette King, P, Fort Valley State: Projected 7th-PFA. His a big leg and impressed scouts at post-season all star games.

-Lamont Bryant, WR/TE, Morgan State: Projected 7th-PFA. Athletic player better suited as a WR for next level. Has great potential but will need to stay focused.

-Johnathan Hollins, DT, Texas Southern. Projected 7th-PFA. Good size lineman with thick and long arms. Can play in 4-3 or 3-4 as a DE. Has the ability to start for a team. Needs to keep his focus. 

-David Legree, QB, Hampton: Projected PFA. Syracuse transfer. Nice size QB with a big arm. Needs to work on accuracy. 

-Zary Stewart, DE, Morgan State. Projected PFA. Syracuse transfer. DE with good size and agility. Scouts like his arm length and quickness. 

-Rico Council, LB, Tennesse State: Projected PFA. OVC defensive player of the year. Thumper LB and good vs the run. Lacks coverage skills. 

-Casey Therriault, QB, Jackson State: Projected PFA. SWAC best QB the last two years. Conference Offensive player of the year. Needs to improve decision making and efficiency. 

-Delano Johnson, DE/LB, Bowie State. Projected PFA. Great size player with good potential. Will need to develop as a pass rusher.

-Nigel Carr, DE/LB, Alabama St. Projected PFA. Florida St transfer. Talented LB with good instincts. Has had a lot of the field issues.

-Nic Cooper, RB, Winston Salem St. Projected PFA. Very productive RB with good size. Potential to be a back up RB at the next level.

-Reggie Sandilands, LB, Bethune Cookman, Projected PFA. Undersized LB with real good instincts and smarts. Good in coverage.

-Jared Green, WR, Southern. Projected PFA. UVA transfer and soon of HOF Darrell Green. Speedy receiver that has shown good improvement with hands in all star games.

-Ryan Lewis, LB, Bethune Cookman. Projected PFA. Productive ILB with good strength and awareness.

Chris Walley, QB, Norfolk St, Projected FA. Accurate QB that plays with good efficiency. MEAC Offensive player of the year. Coming off injury from all star game.

-John Jones, LB, Tennesse St, Projected PFA. Former Florida Gator. Undersized LB with ability to run sideline to sideline. 

-Nick Andrews, WR, Alabama St. Projected PFA. Small slot receiver that was very productive in college. Gets open and catches everything. 

-Moses Ellis, CB, Prairie View A&M. Projected FA. CB that is better fitted for zone. Didn't build on good junior season.

-Paul Cox, WR, Mississippi Valley St. Projected PFA.  Tall possession receiver who constantly gets open and makes all the catches. Wins out for the jump ball, uses his large frame as an advantage and possesses good eye/hand coordination.
Akeem Ward, DE, Winston Salem St. Projected PFA. Nice size end with terrific movement skills and edge speed. Good against the run,

-Isaiah Thomas, WR, Hampton. Projected FA. Possession receiver with thick size and solid hands.

-Dominic Bell, CB, Grambling State, Projected FA. Decent size CB with good awareness. Needs to be more physical.

-Marcellos Wilder, WR, Jackson State. Projected PFA. Productive receiver with good hands and body control. 

-Adrian Moore, RB, Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Projected PFA. Oklahoma St transfer. Quick and fast RB with good cut back ability. Chang of pace back. 

-Jarvis Canty, OL, Morehouse. Projected PFA. O-Lineman with great size. Has the length to be a RT. Needs better footwork. 
-Justine Ferrell, CB, NC A&T. Projected FA. Short CB with quick feet and agility. Has a chance as a nickel DB. real good return skills.

-Jamie Payton, LB, Southern, Projected FA. Very active LB. Makes quick reads and does't miss many tackles. Can surprise in camp. 

-Brandon Curry, OL, FAMU. Projected FA. Marshall transfer. Has skills to be a backup RT or OG.

-Kendall Noble, OL, Norfolk St. Projected FA. College OT that is better suited for OG. Good technician.

-Natiel Curry, OC, Bethune Cookman. Projected PFA. Smart player with ability to start at OC at next level. Been an all-american player.

-Dontee Nicholls, DT, Tennessee St. Projected PFA. South Carolina transfer. Stout DT that plays with good strength against the run.

-Derrick Hector, WR, Morehouse. Projected PFA. Tall receiver that shows good speed and hands. Impressed at all star game week. Good quickness for his size.

-Renty Rollins, TE, Jackson St, Projected PFA. Hybrid FB/TE with good ability and hands. Physical blocker. 

-Martin Gilbert, RB, Texas Southern, Projected FA. Short thick RB that came on as a senior. Breaks tackles and runs hard.

-Willie Carter, WR, Howard. Projected PFA. Athletic receiver with good size. Has some drops as a senior. Needs to get back to his consistent play prior to his senior year. 

-James Harrell, CB, Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Projected FA. All-Conference performer. Effective zone corner that makes plays on the ball when facing the action.
-Calvin McNarl, WR, Tennesse State. Projected FA. Versatile player with experience at QB. Sure handed receiver that is real good after the catch.

-Jaashawn Jones, RB, Delaware St. Projected FA. Good size back that impressed during all-star week. Shows good instincts and burst.

Wallace Miles, WR, NC A&T. Projected FA. Schools all time leading receiver. Sure handed catcher that runs good routes. Should be rated higher.

-Devonte Reynolds, SS, Norfolk State. FA. Athletic safety thats best in the box or up the field. 

-DeMario Barber, WR/Ret. Projected FA. Quick, fast and small receiver. One of the top returners in DII. 

-Joseph Wyle, FS, Tennesse St. Projected FA. Florida transfer.  Aggressive safety who displays an excellent head for the ball. Always looking to mix it up and very good playing up the field.
-Rico Porch, CB, Alabama A&M. Projected FA. Fluid corner CB with good ball skills. 
-Marcus Wright, RB, Texas Southern. Projected FA. Patient ball carrier with good vision and solid burst.
-Jean Fanor, DB, Bethune Cookman. Projected FA. Nice size safety that made the most of his only year as a starter. Good in the box making plays when the action is in front of him.
-Kirk Fitzhugh, TE, Texas Southern. Projected FA. Good size TE with solid receiving skills. Needs to improve as a blocker.  
-Darel Strong, DE, Clark Atlanta. Projected FA. Athletic DE that fires off the snap,. Fast off the edge and effective making plays from the backside.
-Juavahr Nathan, OC, SC State. Projected FA. Quick explosive center who is best in zone blocking. 
-Dante Thomas, RB, Tennesse State. Projected FA. Fluid runner who weaves his way on the inside and shows a lot of strength carrying the ball.
-Darius Williams, FS, Morehouse. Projected FA. Tall safety that plays with good range. Comes up quick in run support.
-Nicolas Hollinghead, DT, FAMU. Projected FA. Quick DL that controls his gap and stuffs the run. Improved as a senior.
-Alex Harper, OL, NC A&T. Projected FA-Tryout. Big and strong lineman. Small area blocker best for a power running game.
-Kevin Elliot, WR, FAMU. Projected FA. Solid size receiver with reliable hands. Potential fourth wide out at the next level.

-Alton Keaton, DB, Winston Salem St. Projected FA-tryout. Short and stocky DB. Plays bigger than his size. Good against the run coming up field.
-Justin Babb, RB, Savannah St. Projected FA-tryout. RB with good short area quickness and straight-line speed. Not very elusive.
-Antwanne Kerr, TE, SC State. Projected FA-tryout. Good blocking TE that drives defenders to the ground. Not a vertical threat. 
-Rick Volcin, SS, Norfolk State. Projected FA. Fluid and athletic safety. Better in zone coverage. 
-Brandon Harvey, LB, Delaware State. Projected FA. Good inside LB that makes plays behind line of scrimmage. Not good in coverage. 

-Clifton Budd, QB/WR, Bowie State. Projected FA. Versatile player that will get looks as a returner and slot WR. Shows good quickness and elusiveness. 
-Jamarkus Gaskins, LB, Albany State. Projected FA. Blitzing LB that gets to the QB. SIAC Def player of the year.
-Bruna Foster, SS, Grambling St. Projected FA. Big size safety that is a hitter. Good against the run. Could make the move to LB.
-Rashad McRae, DB, Albany State. Projected FA-tryout. Instinctive DB thats always around the ball. 
-Ricky Johnson, DB, Fort Valley State. Projected FA. Good all around safety. Underrated player that is a very aggressive. 
-Keith Massey, DB, Kentucky St. Projected FA. Elevated his game as a senior. Made his mark as a good return specialist. 
-Lee Almanza, OL, Southern. Projected FA. Efficient blocking center that plays with good leverage. 
-Ralphael Amey, WR, Kentucky St. Projected FA. Underrated receiver with good hands and quickness. Led the SIAC in every receiving category. 
-Andre Lyles, SS, Fayetteville St. Projected FA. Physical DB that makes plays in the box. Tough player who played senior season with a shoulder injury. 
-Hardcourt Faraquharson, CB, Clark Atlanta, Projected FA. Athletic cover corner that is best in man. 
-Ian Davidson, DT, Hampton. Projected FA-tryout. Maryland transfer. Quick three technique DT. Good moving up field. needs to play with better leverage. 
-Corwin Hammond, LB, Norfolk St. Projected FA-tryout. Undersized LB that plays with good speed and range.

NFL Prospect Delano Johnson, DE/LB, Bowie State

Bowie State LB Delano Johnson is the true definition of a NFL draft prospect sleeper. Scouts knew of Johnson, but not many of them went into Bowie State during his senior season to cross check him. Most NFL draft writers/experts did not hear of him until he showed up at the HBCU All-Star Bowl week and first impressed them with his size at  6-4 267-pound frame, while also looking the part. Event though Johnson didn't have experience as a pass rusher as he mostly played OLB in a 4-3 at Bowie State, I put Johnson in the all-star game primarily as a DE because I knew this would help him raise his draft value if he showed scouts that he can rush the passer. After the first practice he should scouts that he is capable of playing either with his hand on the ground or standing up based in the two point stance. Johnson shows enough power at the point of contact and also have a quick enough first step to be a threat off the edge in either stance. As a D-II college football player, scouts wanted to see him play against better competition during the all-star week and he didn't disappoint. Johnson is still a very raw player and needs to learn how to stay low coming out of his stands and to make better use of his hand against lineman. He also needs to add more moves to his pass rush and isn't as natural transitioning when his initial rush is stalled out. However, scouts are very intrigued with his skill set and upside to develop as a pass rusher. Johnson very much looks the part and he possesses good size and offers great growth potential. He will be a heavily coveted priority free agent after the draft and is a developmental prospect that teams will like to stash on the practice squad.

NFL Prospect LaQuinton Evans, WR, Southern

LaQuinton Evans is a very smooth and explosive receiver who stretches the field and can take it the distance. He possesses effective eye/hand coordination and plays with great body control. Consistently gets downfield behind defenders and plays to his forty time. Easily gets vertical on DB's and fights to make the difficult catch in traffic. Evans is a very elusive receiver who gets separation from defenders and uses his frame to shield away opponents. He impressed scouts during the HBCU Bowl week with how quickly he gets into his breaks and also his sharp route running. He showed good balance and was very fluid catching the ball. Evans has a nice combination of size and speed and also has a natural feel as a route runner. Does a good job setting up defenders on sharply breaking routes underneath with the vertical ability to also be a threat down the field. Evans is not a physical receiver and needs to work on his strength for the next level. He also sometimes struggle in press coverage and tends to peek before he catches the ball, which results in some drops. Will also need to pick up his intensity as a blocker against the DBs in the NFL. Evans has good size at 6-2 205 and impressed scouts at his pro day with 4.39 & 4.44 40 times and 10-6 broad jump. LaQuinton Evans was Southern's top playmaker on offense the last two years and has all the tools to be a productive 3rd or 4th receiver at the next level. He may have to make his mark early on as a returner on special teams.  

NFL Prospect Chigbo Anunoby, DT, Morehouse

Chigbo Anunoby is the number one rated DT on my Black College Football NFL Draft Defensive Board. He was a terror on the defensive line during his career at Morehouse splitting time between DT and DE. Anunoby has an impressive NFL frame at 6-4 328 lbs and is well-built for the position. He's explosive off the ball and stays low out of his stance. Shows good strength at the power of attack and the balance to extend his arms to fend off blocks inside. He impressed NFL scouts during the HBCU Bowl week with his instincts and good awareness as he consistently flowed toward the action and really did a nice job locating the ball quickly. Anunoby is a marginal pass rusher but displays enough short area quickness for a guy his size. He also did a decent job of pushing the pocket as a bull rusher. Anunoby needs to play with better balance and must develop more moves with his hands to keep blockers off of him. Scouts also have some concerns regarding the DII competition he faced in college and if it will hinder him being able to elevate his game to the next level.  Overall Anunoby is a strong long arm player with a really well proportioned frame who can anchor inside and has been getting plenty of looks from both 34 and 43 teams as a developmental big body. He could develop into a zero-technique/nose tackle prospect at the next level as he physically matures with adding bulk to his frame. Anunboy has grab enough attention from teams during the NFL Draft process to warrant a draft pick in the later rounds.  

NFL Prospect Lamont Bryant, TE/WR, Morgan State

Lamont Bryant is an athletic tight end that flashed great potential during his career at Morgan State. He's been their best receiving threat the last few years but has not always lived up to the expectations that coaches had for him. Bryant flashed his ability as freshman showing good hands and mismatches in the pass game. After showing great promise early on he went into the coaches doghouse the next two years after some off the field incidents and lack of focus on the football field. Since then, he has matured from those incidents and became very focused as a senior and it showed in his play on the field this past year.

Bryant has dependable hands and is fluid releasing off the line, selling routes, and is quick getting to top speed. Runs well laterally and makes catches in stride. Nicely adjusts to errant throws, extends his hands, and offers the quarterback a big target. Good eye/hand coordination and looks the pass in. He impressed scouts during the HBCU Bowl week with his agility, body control and hands to consistently extends to make the reception away from his frame. Uses his frame to shield away defenders and protect the pass. He is at his best on underneath coverages taking advantage of linebackers and safeties. Bryant uses his size as an advantage, easily adjusts to the errant throw and makes catches away from his frame with his hands. Gets vertical to grab high passes over defenders and easily wins out in battles. He is an average blocker showing minimal strength at the point of attack and will be overpowered by defenders. Bryant is an undersized tight end with solid receiving skills but struggles with finishing off linebackers on blocking downs. He will also need to improve his route running as a receiver and become more comfortable releasing out of a two point stance instead of the three point stance he's been use to in college. Scouts are intrigued by his frame at 6-5 225 lbs and 80 inch wing span. Bryant put on a show at his recent pro day running a 4.45 40, 10-8 broad jump and 43 inch vertical. He is a great athlete who hasn't reached the surface of his potential as a football player. Bryant has put himself in a position for teams to consider drafting him in the later 6-7 rounds. Overall, he's an undersized college tight end with reliable hands and the ability to make the transition to wide receiver at the next level. Bryant will be more of a big receiver than a undersized tight end and will be a development project for teams who might fit best in a West Coast system in the NFL. 

NFL Prospect Antonio Dennard, CB, Langston

Antonio Dennard is considered the top NFL prospects from the NAIA conference for this years draft. He's a talented cover corner who plays a very physical game. He's aggressive in all aspects, physical throughout routes, and quick up the field defending the run. Fluid turning his hips in transition, runs downfield with opponents, and quickly gets his head back around to locate the ball and position himself to defend the throw. Displays a good break to the action out of his plant and plays with good awareness. Impressed scouts during HBCU Bowl week with his good feet, patients in press coverage and natural fluidity in the hips. Does a nice job opening his hips showing clean turns and running and re-routing receivers with the proper hand. Dennard also has decent size with and displays good leaping ability on film. Scouts have questions about his top closing or recovery speed. He also shuffles his feet at times down the field instead of naturally backpedaling. Scouts also have their concern regarding the competition and receivers he's faced in college. But he made his mark as the best cover corner during the HBCU Bowl week locking down mostly every receiver he faced. Overall, Dennard is a physical corner who does not back down under any circumstance and shows natural ball skills. He possesses enough ability to be a nickel corner and eventual starter at the next level if he does the little things well. Dennard is an underrated player that could turn into a late-round or PFA steal if he lands with the right team that fits his skills. 

NFL Prospect David Legree, QB, Hampton

QB David Legree spent two years at Syracuse University before transferring to the Hampton Pirates Football program. He's been a two year starter, all conference performer and one of the leagues most exciting players. Suffered a separated shoulder injury towards the end of his senior season and was not able to participate in the HBCU Bowl. Pro scouts are intrigued with his size at 6-4 230 lbs and were hoping to evaluate him closer during the all star week. Legree is athletic passer who's shown flashes of ability in the pocket. Legree is the number one rated QB on my Black College Football NFL Draft board. He possesses a big nice arm, puts air under deep throws with velocity. Moves well in the pocket and has the ability to elude oncoming pass rushers. Can pick up yardage with his legs or get outside the pocket and make passes on the move. Has the large and strong arm that scouts like but must improve his accuracy. Possesses good pocket stature, strong enough to withstand the rush and gets the ball off with defenders draped on him. Easily zips the outs, drives the ball downfield, and his passes immediately get to the intended target. Needs to improve on looking off safeties and locating receivers down field. Does a good job of sliding outside the pocket to buy time or give himself a better view of the field. Needs to show better footwork and often releasing the ball off his back foot relying on his big arm most of the time. Has the ability to put touch on passes when necessary. Scouts love his impressive size, live arm and upside to grow into a possible NFL signal caller. Legree will be a developmental project for teams and has all the physical skills necessary to play in the NFL and should get consideration in the late rounds or after the draft.

Black College Football NFL Draft Defensive Position Rankings

Defensive Ends 
1. Adrian Hamilton - Prairie View A&M
2. Ryan Davis - Bethune Cookman
3. Donovan Robinson - Jackson State
4. Corey Hart - Alabama A&M 
5. Zary Stewart - Morgan State 
5a. Akeem Ward - Winston Salem State 
5b. Michael Johnson - Arkansas Pine Bluff 


Defensive Tackles
1. Chigbo Annunoby - Morehouse 
2. Johnathan Hollins -Texas Southern
3. Charles Deas - Shaw 
4. Dontee Nicholls - Tennessee State
5. Ian Davidson - Hampton
5a. Nicholas Hollinghead - Florida A&M 


Inside Linebackers
1. Rico Council - Tennessee State 
2. Cliff Exama - Grambling State 
3. Ryan Lewis - Bethune Cookman
4. Jaime Payton - Southern 
5. Brandon Harvey - Delaware State 
5a. Willie Fuller - Alabama A&M 


Outside Linebackers
1. Nigel Carr - Alabama State 
2. Delano Johnson - Bowie State 
3. John Jones - Tennessee State 
4. Reggie Sandilands - Bethune Cookman
5. Jamark Gaskins - Albany State 
5a. Corwin Hammond - Norfolk State 
5b. Courtney Daniels - Fort Valley State 


Strong Safety
1. Christian Thompson - South Carolina State 
2. Donovan Richard - South Carolina State
3. Devonte Reynolds - Norfolk State 
4. Ricky Johnson - Fort Valley State
5. Bruna Foster - Grambling State
5a. Andre Lyles - Fayetteville State 


Free Safety 
1. Dominique Ellis - South Carolina State 
2. Joseph Wylie - Tennessee State
3. Darrius Williams - Morehouse 
4. Jean Fanor - Bethune Cookman
5. Rick Volcin - Norfolk State 


Cornerbacks 
1. Micah Pellerin - Hampton
2. Antonio Dennard - Langston 
3. Moses Ellis - Prairie View A&M
4. Dominic Bell - Grambling State 
5. Justin Ferrell - NC A&T
6. James Harrell - Arkansas Pine Bluff
7. Rico Porch - Alabama A&M 
8. Rashad McRae - Albany State
9. Hardcourt Farquaharson - Clark Atlanta
10. Alton Keaton - Winston Salem State 


Return Specialists
1. Demario Barber - Fort Valley State 
2. Calvin McNarl - Tennessee State
3. Clifton Budd - Bowie State 
4. Keith Massey - Kentucky State 
5. Dominique Fitzgerald - Winston Salem State 


Punter 
1. Marquette King - Fort Valley State
2. Ronnie Partridge - Stillman College 


Kicker
1. Ryan Estep - Norfolk State 
2. Trevor Scott - Florida A&M 

Black College Football NFL Draft Offensive Position Rankings

Quarterbacks 
1. David Legree - Hampton
2. Casey Therriault - Jackson State
3. Chris Walley - Norfolk State
4. Michael Johnson - NC Central
5. Stanley Jennings - Albany State

Running Backs
1. Nicholas Cooper - Winston Salem State
2. Adrian Moore - Arkansas-Pine Bluff
3. Martin Gilbert - Texas Southern
4. Jaashawn Jones - Delaware State
5. Marcus Wright - Texas Southern
5a. Dante Thomas - Tennesse State

Tight End 
1. Lamont Bryant - Morgan State
2. Renty Rollins - Jackson State
3. Kirk Fitzhugh - Texas Southern
4. Antwuanne Kerr - South Carolina State
5. Michael Byrd - Winston Salem State
5a. Thomas Logan - Stillman College

Wide Receiver
1. Mario Lewis - Grambling State
2. LaQuinton Evans - Southern
3. Marcellos Wilder - Jackson State
4. Derrick Hector - Morehouse
5. Willie Carter - Howard
6. Wallace Miles - NC A&T
7. Jared Green - Southern
8. Isaiah Thomas - Hampton
9. Nick Andrews - Alabama State
10. Paul Cox - Mississippi State
11. Demario Barber - Fort Valley State
12. Kevin Elliot - Florida A&M
12a. Raphael Amey - Kentucky State

Offensive Tackle
1. Kendall Noble - Norfolk State
2. Brendan Curry - Florida A&M
3. Keith Newell - Delaware State
4. Javis Canty - Morehouse
5. Jesse Mitchell - Kentucky State

Offensive Guard/Center 
1. Natiel Curry - Bethune Cookman
2. James Delke - Prairie View A&M
3. Juavahr Nathan - South Carolina State
4. Lee Almanza - Southern
5. Alex Harper - NC A&T

NFL Prospect Donovan Robinson, DE/LB, Jackson State

Donovan Robinson finished his great Jackson State Tiger career with 30 QB sacks, 58 tackles for losses and 171 total tackles. Robinson was a athletic college pass rusher who projects to outside linebacker in the NFL for a 3-4 team. He displays terrific movement skills, generates speed, and forceful off the edge with great quickness. Shows a quick first step with good natural knee bend and gets leverage on opponents. Impressed scouts during the HBCU Bowl week with his ability to play with good pad level and to re-direct his pursuit in traffic. He quickly changes direction and immediately alters his angle of attack with no problem. Robinson also showed better coverage ability than expected displaying good feet, hips and awareness on routes. He is fast off the edge and immediately gets out to the sidelines in pursuit and shows great closing speed. Lacks bulk at 6-2 245 lbs to be an every down NFL DE and is sometimes controlled by single blocker or easily sealed from the action as he was primarily used up field in college. Robinson was an outstanding pass rusher in college and shows enough athleticism to translate to outside linebacker in the NFL. He will need some time to adjust to the 3-4 NFL system but I believe he can be an asset rushing the passer out of a three-point stance or standing up over tackle. Robinson will need to prove his worth on special teams early in his career as he gets more comfortable with adjusting to the outside linebacker position. NFL teams that run the 3-4 are intrigued with his athleticism, size,  4.6 speed and college career production. Robinson is a true sleeper and has the interest of teams to warrant a draft grade in the later 6-7th rounds.  


Video
http://www.draftnasty.com/football/videos/nfl-draft-feature-hbcu-bowl/draftnasty-spotlight-welcome-to-mr-robinson-s-neighborhood/ 

NFL Draft Prospect Reggie Sandiland, LB, Bethune-Cookman

LB Reggie Sandiland was a three time all conference selected player for Bethune-Cookman and also a two time team captain. He is a very vocal and instinctive run defender with a good nose for the football. Makes plays behind the line of scrimmage and nicely flows to the action thru traffic. He is very explosive and quickly fills the back side gap. Reggie impressed scouts during the HBCU Bowl week with his ability to move sideline to sideline, his effectiveness in pursuit, and also how he can easily change direction or alters his angle of attack. He does a good job with blitzing off the perimeter and getting to the QB. He also shows good awareness in pass coverage and gets depth on his drops to cover a lot of area. Scouts feel he is best playing in the box and making plays up the field but have their concerns on how efficient he will be able to do this effectively at the next level. Reggie is a bit undersized for the LB position which is also a concern for scouts as well. He has a tendency at times to overrun the action in his pursuit and needs to improve his consistentcy in getting off blocks at the point of attack. Overall scouts likes his leadership, smarts and also that he is consistently around the ball and has an aggressive nature to his game. Reggie has the ability to make it as a backup inside or weak-side linebacker. He will give himself the best chance to make a roster if he lands with a team that has the right defensive scheme that will fit his skills and also if he plays well on special teams. 

NFL Prospect Derrick Hector, WR, Morehouse

Morehouse WR Derrick Hector is a tall athletic receiver at 6-4 215 lbs that has good size and uses his frame well to shield away opponents. He gets vertical on defenders and fights to make the reception. He also displays good eye/hand coordination and shows strong hands when making tough catches over the middle. Hector looks smooth coming out of his breaks but tends to get a little high sometimes when setting up his routes. He clutches the ball into his body on some intermediate routes and needs to work on consistently catching the ball more with his hands. He also needs to work on coming back to the quarterback on certain pass plays. Hector was one of the biggest receivers during the HBCU Bowl week and impressed NFL scouts in practices with how fluid he looked releasing off the line with quick top speed and also his burst when selling the deep route. Hector uses his size and strength to his advantage and gives good effort blocking downfield. He also showed his ability as a red zone threat consistently winning the jump ball battle against just about every defensive back he faced. Hector put up productive numbers considering the offense he played in and was also a two time all conference performer. A good pro day will increase his chances on receiving an opportunity in training camp. Hector has the size, speed and receiver skills to play at the next level and could be a good candidate as a fifth receiver. He will have to pull together a complete game in training camp and quickly adjust to better competition to give himself the best opportunity to make an active NFL roster or practice squad.   


Derrick Hector youtube film
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBAxIfNNMnc   

NFL Prospect Zary Stewart, DE, Morgan State

DE Zary Stewart arrived at Morgan State in 2009 as a Sophomore transfer from Syracuse University. He was rated the 18th best prospect in Maryland by scout.com coming out of high school and received offers from Maryland, Kansas State, Rutgers, Louisville, Cincinnati and Syracuse. Stewart did not make an immediate impact right away at Morgan State but by the middle of his Junior season he started to flash his ability as a pass rusher and became an all conference performer in his final two seasons. Stewart has a good frame at 6-4 255 lbs with long arms and also has the build to grow and get bigger. On film, he displays a good burst up field with short area quickness and balance to change directions. Stewart does a good job of using his arm length and hands to keep lineman off him. He also shows good football awareness in run and passing situations when recognizing screens and draws. Stewart has some stiffness in his hips and he needs to improve his flexibility to bend more at the knees while staying low out of his stance. Also if Stewart lands with a 3-4 team, he will need to show the ability to drop back in coverage and rush from a two point stance instead of the three point that he was accustom to in college. Overall, Stewart has the talent to warrant looks from 4-3 and 3-4 defensive teams and his recent play in all-star games (HBCU Bowl & NFLPA game) has increased that interest which will definitely land him an opportunity in a NFL training camp. He also has the body to contribute on special teams which will help his chances when competing for a roster spot. Stewart is still raw in some areas but has the potential to make a NFL teams roster or may spend sometime on the practice squad as he continues to develop. 

HBCU Football MEAC Senior Prospect Watch Preview

The MEAC Football Conference represented the HBCU with the most draft picks for the 2011 NFL Draft with three players being selected: Kenrick Ellis, DT, Hampton going third round to N.Y. Jets, J.C. Culbreath, OT, SC State going to Detriot Lions in 7th round and Curtis Holcomb, CB, FAMU also going 7th round to San Francisco 49ers.

The 2011 HBCU All-Star Bowl Game Watch List has been compiled and while there may not be anyone in this years class as highly regarded as Ellis was around this time last year. The MEAC still have plenty of intriguing 2012 NFL Draft Prospects that scouts will be taking notice of for this college football season.

Senior Prospects to watch:

South Carolina State: returns a couple of Seniors from the MEAC top ranked defense that will be on the radar of NFL scout such as: DL Pat Washington; LB Donovan Richard; SS Christian Thompson (Auburn Transfer) and FS Dominique Ellis (NC State Transfer). SC State also returns First Team All-MEAC TE Antwanne Kerr. Richard is an very active LB and Washington is a versatile and productive DL. 

Bethune Cookman: the 2010 MEAC Co-Champions returns top players mostly on defense in DE Ryan Davis, LB Ryan Lewis, LB Reggie Sandilands and DB Michael Williams. Davis is their best player and is a terror coming off the edge. Williams received a sixth year and will lead a young secondary. All-MEAC OL Natiel Curry will anchor the offense.

Hampton: was 6-5 in 2010 and return some key senior starters. Leading the way is senior QB David Legree (Syracuse transfer) has an impressive arm but needs to improve his accuracy. Senior WR Isaiah Thomas will be his top target. Senior LB Julio Sanchez returns after missing all of 2010. DB Micah Pellerin (Souther Miss transfer) is a ball hawk and will lead the secondary along with FS James Butts.

Howard: had a down year in 2010 but return a couple of players that should turn things around in 2011 and catch the eye of NFL scouts. All-MEAC WR Willie Carter is probably the most talented receiver in the conference but last year suffered from bad QB play and a run style-option offense. OT Corey Gwinner is an underrated prospect that can rise with a standout senior year. On defense, Howard return DT Sackie Kerkulah and DE Corey Berry that should contend for all conference honors. Kerkulah is a returning All-MEAC performer and impressed on film last year.

Florida A&M: the 2010 MEAC Co-Champions graduated a heavy senior class last year but returns some prospects that will keep them competitive in 2011. Senior WR Kevin Elliot is a player with nice size and should be their top target, while OL Brandon Curry will lead them up front. Senior DT Jerry Willis is a decent player and their best DL. FAMU also return active LB's in Alvis Graham and Demarius Folsom.

North Carolina A&T:  returns the MEAC Conference leading returning rusher in Senior RB Mike Mayhew who shows real good instincts. They also return the conferences most exciting player in return specialist/DB Justin Ferrell as he made First Team All-MEAC as a CB and returner in 2010. He is on the small school prospect list of NFL Scouts to evaluate this fall.

Norfolk State: have several senior prospects returning that should have them contending for the conference championship with QB Chris Walley and OL Kendall Noble leading the offense. WR Victor Hairston will be Walley main target and Noble is one of the top returning lineman in the conference. On defense, DL Josh Turner and LB Corwin Hammond are the top standouts coming back on defense. Turner is a undersized DT that plays bigger than his size. Hammond is a sleeper and has potential as a weakside LB at the next level. DB Ricardo Volcin is an intriguing DB with nice size.

Morgan State: is lead by all conference Senior OL Lawrence Brewer on offense. They also return  TE Lamont Bryant who showed a lot of promise since arriving but has dealt with some character issues. Senior DB Reshaude Miller is the leader on defense and one of the top free safeties in the conference.

Delaware State: has one of the better LB's in the conference in Brandon Harvey who registered 85 tackles in 2010. Senior WR Darius Jackson is a small size receiver that has shown the ability to make plays from the slot position.

North Carolina Central: is moving up to Division I this year with their first year in the MEAC. The Eagles have a couple of seniors to look out for in LB Roger Stewart, DB David Ingram, WR Corey Harris and OL Julian Gray. Stewart makes plays in the backfield with leading the team in tackles for loss in 2010. Ingram is small but is their best cover corner and led the team with 3 int's last year.

-Press Releases for the 2011 HBCU Bowl All-Star Game (www.hbcubowl.com) will be coming soon. New updates regarding TV broadcast production, coaching staffs, website, entertainment events and apparel, etc. are on the way!!

HBCU 2011 NFL Draft Prospects Results

The 2011 NFL Draft weekend resulted with a total of four HBCU Football players drafted. Kenrick Ellis, DT, Hampton University (did not participate in 2010 HBCU Bowl) went to the N.Y. Jets in the third round,  J.C. Culbreath, OL, SC State - Detroit Lions, Frank Kearse, DL, Alabama A&M - Miami Dolphins and Curtis Holcomb, CB, Florida A&M - San Francisco 49ers were all drafted in the seventh round. The NFL draft also marked the second straight year that the San Francisco 49ers have drafted a CB from a MEAC School in the 7th round with SC State Phillip Adams going in 2010 and making the team (read story on 49ers.com http://bit.ly/jH3XWG). There were a few more highly regarded HBCU NFL prospects such as Ricardo Lockette, WR, Fort Valley St; David Mims, OL,Virginia Union and Jordan Miller, DL, Southern University that could of went on the last day (4th-7th round) but will become hot undrafted free agent commodities when the CBA Labor deal is resolved. Below is a scouting report on this years HBCU NFL Drafted players:

Selected by: Detroit Lions
Round: 7
Pick (Overall): 6 (209)

Johnny Culbreath (OT)

Height: 6'5"

Weight: 323 lbs.

College: South Carolina St.

Conference: MEAC 

Scouting Report: Best OL in the MEAC last two years. Athletic lineman with good feet and long arms. Plays with a mean streak and has a future at RT or OG. Needs to be more consistent.

Selected by: Miami Dolphins
Round: 7
Pick (Overall): 28 (231)

Frank Kearse (DT)

Height: 6'4"

Weight: 315 lbs.

College: Alabama A&M

Conference: SWAC

Scouting report: Good size DL with versatility to play DE or DT in Miami's 3-4 scheme. Quick and agile player that has the potential to develop into a solid contributor on the line. Needs to consistently get off blocks and play with better leverage.

Selected by: San Francisco 49ers
Round: 7
Pick (Overall): 47 (250)

Curtis Holcomb (DB)

Height: 5'10"

Weight: 190 lbs.

College: Florida A&M

Conference: MEAC

Scouting report: One of the top CB's int the MEAC the last 2 years. Better in man than in zone and display good hips. Candidate to be a nickel DB at the next level. Needs better footwork in coverage.
49ers Trent Baalke’s Film Review: Curtis Holcomb: http://bit.ly/jheHq4 

Selected by: New York Jets
Round: 3
Pick (Overall): 30 (94)

Kenrick Ellis (DL)

Height: 6'5"

Weight: 346 lbs.

College: Hampton

Conference: MEAC

Scouting report: D1-A transfer that was the most dominate defensive player in the conference. Will be looked to replace pro bowl NT Kris Jenkins and has all the tools to do so. Very explosive, quick and strong player with perfect size for the nose in a 3-4 defense. Needs to play with more of a motor on a consistent bases and disappear in moments sometimes.

The 2011 HBCU All-Star Bowl Game will be played the weekend of December 17th at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. We are currently gathering our Player Watch List for this years game.  Look out for news and press releases coming soon.