The 2025 college football season is underway, and with it comes the anticipation of the next wave of NFL talent. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been a pipeline for NFL talent, and the 2026 draft class is no exception. Here are the top 10 HBCU prospects to watch as they aim to make their mark on the NFL.

1. Bruno Onwuazor, OT, Virginia State

• Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 351 pounds | Class: Redshirt senior Bruno Onwuazor has been a standout offensive lineman for Virginia State, earning CIAA Offensive Lineman of the Year honors in 2024. His combination of size and athleticism makes him a promising prospect for the NFL.

2. Joanes Fortilien, WR, Jackson State

• Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 212 pounds | Class: Redshirt junior Joanes Fortilien is a big-bodied receiver with a knack for making plays in the red zone. His size and catch radius make him a difficult matchup for defensive backs.

3. Erick Hunter, LB, Morgan State

• Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 218 pounds | Class: Redshirt senior Erick Hunter is a versatile linebacker with the ability to cover ground and make plays in the backfield. His pursuit speed and coverage instincts are among his best attributes.

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

• Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 306 pounds | Class: Redshirt Senior Ashton Grable has established himself as one of the top FCS blockers. His strong hands and balanced base make him a reliable presence on the offensive line.

5. Ckelby Givens, Edge, Southern

• Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 245 pounds | Class: Senior Ckelby Givens is a dynamic pass rusher with a knack for getting to the quarterback. His first-step quickness and hand power make him a disruptive force on the edge.

6. Noah Miles, Edge, Howard

• Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 250 pounds | Class: Senior Noah Miles emerged as a bright spot for Howard in 2024, showcasing his pass-rush abilities with 11.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks.

7. Jeremiah Williams, DT, Jackson State

• Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 315 pounds | Class: Redshirt senior Jeremiah Williams is a disruptive force on the defensive line, capable of playing both inside and off the edge. His ability to penetrate the first level makes him a valuable asset.

8. Kevon King, RB, Norfolk State

• Height: 5-foot-10 | Weight: 221 pounds | Class: Senior Kevon King is a physical running back with excellent contact balance. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact makes him a tough matchup for defenses.

9. Malcolm Reed, S, North Carolina Central

• Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 180 pounds | Class: Senior Malcolm Reed is a versatile safety with the range and instincts to make plays all over the field. His ability to read and react to route concepts makes him a valuable asset in the secondary.

10. Eden James, RB, Howard

• Height: 5-foot-10 | Weight: 180 pounds | Class: Senior Eden James is an explosive ball carrier with the ability to make big plays. His smooth running style and breakaway speed make him a threat every time he touches the ball.

These prospects represent the next generation of NFL talent from HBCUs. As the 2025 season progresses, keep an eye on these players as they aim to make their mark on the NFL draft.