Pittman’s Pocket: HBCU 2026 Mid Year High School Signee’s

The Class of 2026 continues to shape up with a strong group of mid-year signees across HBCU programs. These young athletes represent a mix of skill positions and key linemen, bringing size, athleticism, and upside to their respective programs.

Prairie View A&M has been active on the offensive side of the ball, securing running backs Amarie Jackson (6’0, 180, Pascagoula, MS, ⭐⭐⭐) and Nicholas Tramble (5’8, 165, Houston, TX, ⭐⭐⭐), as well as quarterback Mack Cooper (6’5, 210, Long Beach, CA, ⭐⭐⭐). These signees provide Prairie View with immediate depth and potential for early playing time.

Howard University has bolstered its roster with versatile playmakers. Mason Love (6’3, 220, Richmond, VA, ATH, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) and Marcus Ogbogu (6’3, 220, Springfield, VA, Edge, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) bring four-star talent, while Kavontae Whipple (6’0, 175, Cincinnati, OH, S, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) adds skill in the defensive backfield. Darryon Jones (6’2, 225, Venice, FL, QB, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) gives Howard another talented option at quarterback.

Texas Southern has added receivers to its 2026 class, signing Richard Clark (Mesquite, TX, WR, NR) and three-star Nelson Peterson (Forney, TX, WR, ⭐⭐⭐), strengthening their passing game for the future.

Across the SWAC and MEAC, linemen and skill position players are also making their mark. Ben Boulware (6’5, 305, Winston-Salem, NC, DL, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) has committed to NC A&T, while North Carolina Central secured running back Gino Addison (5’9, 200, Middleburg, FL, RB, NR). Darius Burwell (6’2, 185, Huntsville, AL, S, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) signed with Alabama A&M, and Tennessee State picked up edge rusher Terrell Evans (6’5, 220, Edge, ⭐⭐⭐) and cornerback Jordan Francis (6’2, 180, CB, ⭐⭐⭐).

Florida A&M strengthened its interior line with Jordan Davis (6’4, 330, IOL, Hollywood, FL, ⭐⭐⭐⭐), while Bethune-Cookman landed offensive lineman Mark Holloway (6’3.5, 295, St. Petersburg, FL, IOL, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) and quarterback Joel Morris (6’1, 180, Sarasota, FL, QB, ⭐⭐⭐).

Jackson State has been active as well, signing offensive lineman Chadrick Windham (6’5, 290, Macon, MS, IOL, ⭐⭐⭐⭐) and quarterback Sammy Dunn (6’1, 185, Mobile, AL, QB, ⭐⭐⭐⭐), both of whom are expected to contribute early in their careers.

This group of mid-year signees highlights the continued momentum in HBCU recruiting, blending established talent with emerging prospects. Programs are building for immediate needs while also setting up a pipeline of players who can develop into impact athletes over the next several years.