The last HBCU Football player drafted to the NFl was Jackson State Isaiah Bolden by the New England Patriots in the seventh round. There were no players drafted by an NFL team last season leaving people wondering why so many players from FCS Division I AA programs were overlooked.
Things could very well change this year with Alabama A&M Offensive Tackle Carson Vinson impressing NFL scouts during the week-long practice for the Reese’s Senior Bowl game, in which Vinson was the only player selected from an HBCU program this year. The 6’6 305lb offensive lineman proved he belonged showing his ability to dominate the University of South Carolina FBS defensive lineman Kyle Kennard and Texas A&M Edge Rusher Shemar Stewart who is known for his explosiveness off the ball.
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Vinson’s dominating performance during Reese’s Senior Bowl earned him an opportunity to participate in the NFL Combine. Looking at Bleacher Report’s scouting report, NFL scouts were impressed with his size and arm length. Playing offensive tackle, a player must be aggressive and look to punish the defensive player lined up in front of them.
There were a few blemishes with his high pad level and his play during the Auburn game. According to the report they consider Vinson to be a 5th-round draft pick while Draft Kings has him slated to be picked in the 7th round. The NFL draft begins April 24th through April 26th.