METAIRIE, Louisiana - On Monday, all 32 NFL teams converged at the New Orleans Saints' practice facility to observe draft prospects at the NFL's third annual combine for historically Black colleges and universities. A total of 47 athletes hailing from various conferences, including the CIAA, MEAC, SWAC, and SIAC, participated in the HBCU combine, setting the stage for a week-long display of HBCU talent leading up to the HBCU Legacy Bowl on Saturday.

The standout performances at the HBCU combine included Alcorn State University's running back Jarveon Howard, who impressed scouts with his agility and athleticism, clocking in with a top 40-yard dash time of 4.52 seconds. Another notable player was North Carolina Central's quarterback Davius Richard, who showcased his accuracy and velocity during the drills, alongside Howard University's running back Ian Wheeler, praised for his football IQ and versatility.

Winston-Salem State University's R.J. Mobley also turned heads as the tallest and heaviest wide receiver present, embodying the physical attributes of an NFL player. Meanwhile, Florida A&M University's Eric Smith blazed through the 40-yard dash with the fastest time of 4.34 seconds, demonstrating his speed on the field.

Jackson State University's safety John Huggins emerged as the top defensive player at the combine, displaying exceptional speed, agility, and impressive jumps, placing him at the forefront of scouts' radar. With stellar showings from athletes like Howard, Huggins, Smith, and others, the SWAC showcased its dominance at the event.

The combine raised eyebrows as scouts reconsidered initial assessments, with some players potentially moving up the draft boards as late-round selections. The event, spearheaded by dedicated HBCU athletes, continues to gain recognition and provide a platform for aspiring talents to shine on the path to professional football success.

Mia Berry, the senior HBCU writer for Andscape, highlights the remarkable advancements and stories within the world of sports across historically significant institutions.