Despite standing 5’6″, the electric running back from North Carolina A&T thrived in a Bears offense, totaling 4,286 all-purpose yards and 15 touchdowns, as a change of pace.
Originally signed to Clemson, Leonard transferred to South Carolina State. After consecutive MEAC Defensive Players of the Year, the Colts selected the linebacker with the 36th overall pick.
When the Texans selected the former Alabama State Hornets offensive lineman with the 23rd overall pick, no one batted an eye.
While never counted on as a permanent starting option at corner, the six-foot-three Williams provides versatility and sound coverage for the Chiefs. Entering his fourth year in Kansas City, the former Fayetteville State Broncos standout will look to add to his two Super Bowl rings.
Perhaps the best HBCU cover corner on this list, the former South Carolina State Bulldog teammate of Shaquille Leonard, has allowed just three passing touchdowns on 61 completed passes.
After his senior year at Jackson State became televised due to Deion Sanders’ coaching Jackson State, the edge rusher caught the eye of many NFL teams.
The 6’3″, 311-pound Southern University guard played two games for the Bears in 2023. Now, he resides in the interior line depth rotation for the Carolina Panthers
Another one of Deion Sanders’ former players will continue to fight for reps as the nickel back. Now, with Mike Vrabel as the head coach, the six-foot-two corner with 4.35 speed could fit a Swiss Army-type role with New England’s defense.
