Rising HBCU Talent- 10 Prospects Eyeing the 2025 NFL Draft

From dynamic offensive tackles to versatile linebackers and agile cornerbacks, these athletes are ready to build on the legacy of past HBCU stars. As they enter their crucial final college season, their performances will be key in shaping their draft prospects and highlighting the growing significance of HBCU talent in the league. Here’s a look at these rising stars and what makes them prospects to watch, compiled from expert opinions from this insider magazine for betting and their outlook for 2025. 

1. Carson Vinson, OT, Alabama A&M

Height: 6'6" | Weight: 305 lbs
Vinson is a highly regarded offensive tackle with a mix of size and agility, positioning him as the next big NFL prospect from the SWAC, following in the footsteps of Terron Armstead and Tytus Howard. Known for his impressive wingspan and standout game against Vanderbilt, Vinson is on track to become Alabama A&M’s first offensive player drafted in over two decades.

2. Aaron Smith, LB, South Carolina State

Height: 6'2" | Weight: 218 lbs
Smith is a versatile linebacker from a program that has produced NFL stars like Javon Hargrave and Shaquille Leonard. While he’s known for his quickness and instinctive play, improving his block-shedding abilities could enhance his draft stock, which currently projects him as a late-Day 3 pick.

3. Karon Prunty, CB, North Carolina A&T

Height: 6'2" | Weight: 180 lbs
Prunty, who started his college career at Kansas, is known for his strong performance in zone coverage and his ability to read the quarterback. Although he needs to prove his speed and agility during the pre-draft process, Prunty has the potential to move up from his current undrafted free-agent projection.

4. Erick Hunter, LB, Morgan State

Height: 6'4" | Weight: 210 lbs
Originally a high school quarterback, Hunter has made a name for himself as a dynamic linebacker with impressive coverage skills. His relatively lean frame may push him into a hybrid role at the next level but his athleticism and versatility make him a compelling prospect.

5. Kenny Gallop Jr., S, Howard

Height: 6'0" | Weight: 214 lbs
Gallop had an outstanding junior year, earning MEAC Defensive Player of the Year honors. A strong safety with a reputation for being a physical tackler, he needs to improve his consistency in coverage to enhance his draft prospects.

6. Elijah Williams, DL, Morgan State

Height: 6'3" | Weight: 270 lbs
Williams has been a consistent force on the defensive line for Morgan State, showcasing his strength in maintaining gaps and disrupting the offensive backfield. To solidify his late-round draft status, Williams will need to show more consistency in creating plays behind the line of scrimmage.

7. Kendall Bohler, CB, Florida A&M

Height: 6'0" | Weight: 195 lbs
Bohler is a ball-hawking cornerback with a knack for breaking up passes, evidenced by his 14-pass breakups last season. Scouts are eager to see if he can convert more of these opportunities into turnovers, which would improve his standing as a late-round or undrafted prospect.

8. Bruno Onwuazor, OT, Virginia State

Height: 6'8" | Weight: 310 lbs
Onwuazor is an intriguing prospect with a basketball background, which is evident in his raw athleticism and length. Though he’s still developing his football skills, particularly in run blocking, his physical attributes make him a potential late-round pick if he can show significant improvement this season.

9. Carson Hinton, CB, Howard

Height: 6'0" | Weight: 196 lbs
Hinton, who gained attention with a standout game against Northwestern last season, is known for his tackling ability and fluidity in coverage. He’s considered one of the top nickel defenders in the FCS and could improve his draft stock with strong performances against top competition this season.

10. James Burgess, CB, Alabama State

Height: 6'3" | Weight: 186 lbs
Burgess is a long, physical cornerback who excels in zone coverage, particularly in a Cover 2 scheme. However, questions about his straight-line speed may impact his draft prospects, despite his proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his size and physicality.

The Path to NFL Stardom

These ten HBCU athletes are positioning themselves to make a strong impact in the 2025 NFL Draft. As they enter their final college season, each player has the opportunity to elevate their draft stock with standout performances on the field. With the NFL’s increasing focus on HBCU talent, these prospects are not just looking to get drafted—they’re aiming to become the next generation of HBCU stars in the league. Their journey continues, and the 2024 season will be crucial in determining how high they can rise.