Biggest Winners From The 2024 NFL HBCU Combine
The 2024 NFL HBCU Combine showcased a plethora of talent across various positions, highlighting athletes from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who are set to make their mark in professional football.
Here's a rundown of the top performers who impressed scouts with their physical attributes, on-field skills, and interview capabilities.
Johnathan Huggins (Safety, Jackson State)
With his impressive measurements of 6-foot-1 and 211 pounds, with a 4.45 forty-yard dash and 38.5-inch vertical, Johnathan Huggins demonstrated exceptional versatility and athleticism. His ability to play as a weak-side linebacker and big nickel positions projects him as a multifaceted defensive asset. Huggins' standout performance in the interview phase further solidified his status as a player to watch.
Jarveon Howard (Running Back, Alcorn State)
At 5-foot-9, 215 pounds, Jarveon Howard showcased his burst and explosiveness during his drills and 4.52 40-yard dash. His agility and power were evident, earning him high praise from scouts, particularly for his performance during the interview process, marking him as arguably the best interviewee of the combine.
Ian Wheeler (Running Back, Howard)
Ian Wheeler's performance at 5-foot-10, 203 pounds, running a 4.57 40-yard dash, highlighted his burst and linear acceleration. Wheeler's intelligence shined during his interviews, making him a notable prospect for teams looking for a smart and agile running back with outstanding special teams value.
Tre’Vion Green (Linebacker, Prairie View A&M)
Tre’Vion Green emerged as an under-the-radar prospect who caught everyone's attention with his 4.43 40-yard dash and 34.5-inch vertical jump. At 5-foot-11, 198 pounds, his linear speed and explosiveness make him a perfect fit for the weak-side linebacker position, showcasing significant potential despite his relatively smaller size.
Eric Smith (Cornerback, Florida A&M)
Despite being slightly undersized at 5-foot-8, 167 pounds, Eric Smith's 4.34 40-yard dash and 36-inch vertical jump emphasized his remarkable speed and explosiveness. Smith's linear speed and ability to perform explosively were the highlights of his performance on Monday.
Davius Richard (Quarterback, North Carolina Central)
Davius Richard impressed with his size at 6-foot-2, 225 pounds, and showcased good speed and acceleration with a 4.6 40-yard dash. His performance during the passing drills highlighted his comfortability, timing, and touch, making him a highly requested interviewee over the weekend.
Jaheem Hazel (Cornerback, Jackson State)
Jaheem Hazel, measuring 5-foot-10, 188 pounds, displayed his athleticism and speed with a 4.47 40-yard dash. His performance in agility drills and interviews garnered significant attention, highlighting his potential as a dynamic defensive back.
Zareon Hayes (EDGE, Alabama A&M)
At 6-foot-1, 242 pounds, Zareon Hayes showed off his burst and explosion throughout the combine with a 4.65 40-yard dash. His ability to project as an odd front outside linebacker was demonstrated, making him a sought-after interview prospect.
Darrian Brokenburr (EDGE, Howard)
Despite battling illness, Darrian Brokenburr's size at 6-foot-2, 264 pounds, and his 4.84 40-yard dash did not stop him from showcasing his fluidity and bend in positional drills. His size, maneuverability, and good showing across all the drills highlighted his upside and resilience.
