Pittman’s Pocket: HBCU 2027 NFL Draft Board | The Rising Stars

Why HBCU Seniors and Juniors Are Ready to Make NFL Noise

As the 2026 HBCU football season kicks off, NFL scouts are once again turning their attention to the SWAC, MEAC, CIAA, and SIAC in search of the next wave of professional talent. Recent success stories have shown that elite players can emerge from every level of HBCU football, and the 2027 NFL Draft class features one of the deepest groups of prospects in years.

Leading the way is Alabama State quarterback Andrew Body, whose poise, decision-making, and leadership have made him one of the top HBCU quarterbacks in the country. Body enters the season as Pittman’s Pocket’s highest-rated senior prospect and a legitimate Day 3 NFL Draft candidate.

The wide receiver position may be the deepest in the HBCU ranks. Demond Demas of Virginia State brings Power Four experience and rare athletic ability to the CIAA, while Jackson State’s Joanes Fortilien has the size, catch radius, and playmaking ability that NFL teams covet. Allen University’s Deion Smith also possesses the physical tools to emerge as one of the SIAC’s top draft prospects.

The offensive line is anchored by three premier blockers: Quaveon Davis of Jackson State, Elijah Baker of Alabama State, and Calvin McMillian of Prairie View A&M. Each has earned preseason recognition and possesses the size, technique, and versatility to draw significant NFL attention throughout the season.

Defensively, Jackson State defensive back Kam Sallis headlines the secondary with his instincts, physicality, and ball skills. Albany State’s Derrick Drayton has developed into one of the top defensive linemen in Division II football, while Johnson C. Smith linebacker Vincent Hill continues to establish himself as one of the CIAA’s premier defensive playmakers.

At running back, Johntarrious Thomas of Edward Waters and Eden James of Howard bring different styles but share NFL potential. Thomas is a physical runner with explosiveness between the tackles, while James combines vision, versatility, and receiving ability that fit today’s professional game.

The Next Wave: Junior Prospects to Watch

While the seniors are preparing for the 2027 NFL Draft, several juniors are positioning themselves to become the stars of the 2028 class.

North Carolina A&T defensive lineman Armondi James headlines the junior board with outstanding length and pass-rushing upside. Jackson State cornerback K.J. Chisholm has the athletic profile to become one of the premier defensive backs in HBCU football, while Texas Southern wide receiver Koriyun Richardson continues to develop into a legitimate vertical threat.
Southern’s Herman Brister III and Trey Holy provide the Jaguars with two explosive offensive weapons, while Prairie View A&M receiver Eric Zachery and Bethune-Cookman linebacker Malik Stinnett possess the talent to rise significantly with another productive season.

South Carolina State defensive lineman Kei’Von Chisholm and Arkansas-Pine Bluff running back Jaylen Jennings round out a junior class loaded with future NFL talent.

Pittman’s Pocket Outlook

The 2026 season presents a tremendous opportunity for HBCU football. With experienced seniors chasing NFL dreams and talented juniors building their résumés, scouts will have no shortage of prospects to evaluate.

Pittman’s Pocket will continue to update its 2027 HBCU NFL Draft Board throughout the season, tracking breakout performances, weekly risers, postseason honors, and all-star game invitations. By season’s end, many of these names could hear their names called during the 2027 NFL Draft, continuing the proud tradition of HBCU excellence at the next level.