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Tag: NFL Draft

  • NFL Draft Snubs: No Black QBs in First Round

    The 2026 NFL Draft kicked off on April 23rd, and while many talented players found new homes, a significant trend emerged: not a single Black quarterback was selected in the highly anticipated first round. This marks a notable shift after years of increasing representation for Black quarterbacks in the league.

    A Decade’s First: No Black QBs in Round 1

    For the first time in ten years, the opening 32 picks of the NFL Draft did not include any Black quarterbacks. While other positions saw Black players drafted, including edge rushers, running backs, and wide receivers, the quarterback position remained exclusively non-Black in the first round.

    The two quarterbacks selected in the first round were Fernando Mendoza, who is Cuban-American, and Ty Simpson, who identifies as white. This outcome stands in contrast to the recent success stories of Black quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts, who have become household names and Super Bowl champions.

    The Sole Black QB Drafted

    The only Black quarterback to be selected in the entire 2026 NFL Draft was Taylen Green from Arkansas. He was chosen by the Cleveland Browns with the 182nd overall pick, falling deep into the later rounds.

    This selection is particularly noteworthy given the league’s history with Black quarterbacks. It took nearly a century for all 32 NFL teams to start at least one Black quarterback, a milestone only reached in 2017. While recent years have seen a record number of Black quarterbacks starting games (16 in the 2025 season), this draft’s results might signal a potential slowdown in that progress.

    Historical Context and Future Implications

    The NFL has faced criticism for alleged racial bias in drafting and perception of Black quarterbacks. Historically, there have been concerns about how their leadership and skillsets are evaluated compared to their white counterparts.

    The outcome of the 2026 draft raises questions about whether this trend will continue in future drafts and potentially impact the number of Black quarterbacks making it into starting roles in the league. Only time will tell if this is a temporary anomaly or the start of a new direction.

    What do you think about the 2026 NFL Draft’s selection of quarterbacks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Shilo Sanders Ejected for Punching Opponent

    Shilo Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, is trying to make his mark in the league with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, his preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills took a rough turn when he was ejected from the game after throwing a punch at an opponent.

    The Incident Unfolds

    The altercation happened during a short pass play that had just concluded. Sanders, a rookie safety, found himself being aggressively pushed by Bills tight end Zach Davidson. Apparently fed up with the shove, Sanders retaliated by punching Davidson in the helmet. Referees were quick to spot the foul play and immediately removed Sanders from the game, as fighting is strictly prohibited in the NFL and results in an automatic ejection.

    The timing couldn’t have been worse for Sanders. Right after he was sent off the field, the Bills managed to score a touchdown. This ejection marked a disappointing end to what was supposed to be a crucial opportunity for him to impress the Buccaneers’ coaching staff and solidify his spot on the roster.

    Coach’s Reaction and Future Uncertainty

    Following the game, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles addressed the incident, stating, “You can’t throw punches in this league. I mean, that’s inexcusable. They’re gonna get you every time. Gotta grow from that.” The coach emphasized the need for Sanders to learn from this mistake.

    Shilo Sanders, who is 25 years old, had only played a few preseason games, recording three tackles before the ejection. With this incident casting a shadow over his debut, it remains uncertain whether he will officially make the Buccaneers’ final roster or be let go. This preseason was his first real taste of NFL action, and now his future with the team hangs in the balance.

    What do you think about Shilo Sanders’ ejection? Will this impact his chances with the Buccaneers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Bills Sign Alcorn State RB Jarveon Howard: HBCU Talent Shines

    Big news for HBCU football fans! The Buffalo Bills are adding another talented player from a Historically Black College and University to their roster. They’ve signed former Alcorn State running back Jarveon Howard, a move that brings a tough, physical runner into the Bills’ preseason mix. This is a fantastic opportunity for Howard to showcase his skills and potentially make a name for himself in the NFL.

    Meet Jarveon Howard: A SWAC Workhorse

    Howard made a name for himself at Alcorn State after transferring from Syracuse, quickly becoming one of the most reliable and powerful running backs in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). He’s known for his compact build, impressive contact balance, and a gritty determination to push forward, often running through tackles rather than trying to evade them. For coaches looking for a dependable player on early downs and someone tough enough to gain yards in short-yardage situations, Howard fits the bill perfectly.

    His game translates well to the professional level. Running backs who can consistently convert crucial short-yardage situations, protect the football, and keep the offense on schedule are highly valued by coaches, especially when games get tight. Howard’s film from Alcorn clearly shows his ability to sustain drives, find openings in the line, and generate explosive plays even from routine runs.

    Why Buffalo is a Smart Fit for Howard

    The preseason is all about competition for roster spots and preparing for potential needs later in the season. Buffalo’s backfield could certainly use more depth, and Howard offers exactly that. His downhill running style is a great complement to the Bills’ existing offensive packages, providing a powerful option when they need to control the clock or perform in challenging weather conditions.

    For Howard to secure a spot on the 53-man roster, he’ll likely need to excel in a few key areas. Demonstrating reliability in pass protection, showing excellent ball security (fumbles can be costly!), and contributing on special teams are crucial steps. His determined temperament seems well-suited for the grind of training camp and the preseason.

    The HBCU-to-NFL Pipeline Continues

    Every time a player from an HBCU gets a shot at the next level, it helps shift the narrative. It highlights that talent and dedication aren’t limited to certain conferences; they’re found across all programs. For Alcorn State, this signing is another testament to their ability to develop players with the vision, toughness, and discipline needed for professional football.

    This is also a powerful message for prospective recruits. It reminds them that there are multiple pathways to achieving their NFL dreams, and HBCUs are increasingly becoming a significant part of that journey. The increased visibility from these signings creates a ripple effect, inspiring current students and future generations of athletes.

    What Success Looks Like for Howard

    Success for a physical back like Howard might not mean being the star Week 1 starter. It could mean earning valuable special teams snaps in the preseason, securing a spot on the practice squad, and then getting an opportunity mid-season when fatigue sets in and crucial short-yardage plays can decide close games. If he proves he can handle pass protection and protect the football, he’ll make it very difficult for the Bills to overlook him.

    Ultimately, this signing reinforces a clear message: the gap between HBCU talent and the NFL is narrowing. When talent meets preparation and opportunity, great things can happen. Congratulations to Jarveon Howard and Alcorn State!

    What are your thoughts on Jarveon Howard joining the Buffalo Bills? Do you think he has what it takes to make the roster? Share your predictions in the comments below!

  • Eric Dickerson: NFL Blackballed Shedeur Sanders?

    Pro Football Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson is stirring the pot with some explosive allegations regarding the 2025 NFL Draft. Dickerson claims that the league allegedly warned teams against drafting quarterback Shedeur Sanders, suggesting the NFL wanted to “make an example” out of both Sanders and his famous father, Deion Sanders, also known as Coach Prime.

    Allegations of League Interference

    For some time, whispers have circulated about the NFL potentially influencing teams regarding Sanders’ draft position. Dickerson, speaking on ‘The Roggin & Rodney Show’ on AM 570 LA Sports, stated he heard from a “very good source” within the NFL that the league actively advised teams not to draft the highly touted quarterback. “I tell you this much, what I heard from someone that’s in the NFL, that the NFL told [teams], ‘Don’t draft him, do not draft him. We’re going to make an example out of him,’” Dickerson alleged.

    Dickerson went even further, claiming that someone from the league contacted the Cleveland Browns – the team that eventually selected Sanders in the fifth round (133rd overall). According to Dickerson, the Browns were told not to draft him, and he suggests they were “forced into drafting him because somebody made a call to them.” The alleged objective, Dickerson explained, was to have Sanders go undrafted, thereby sending a message about perceived transgressions.

    Counterarguments and Context

    These allegations come amidst ongoing discussions about Sanders’ draft position, with some comparing the situation to that of Colin Kaepernick. However, Sports Illustrated journalist Albert Breer offered a different perspective on The Dan Patrick Show. Breer dismissed the conspiracy theories, suggesting the simpler explanation is that most NFL teams didn’t view Sanders as a first-round prospect, contrary to earlier speculation. He also noted that historically, fewer quarterbacks are selected in the second or third rounds.

    Despite Breer’s counterpoint, Dickerson’s claims add another layer to the narrative surrounding Shedeur Sanders and his father, Deion Sanders, highlighting the intense scrutiny and potential league politics that can surround high-profile figures in sports.

    What do you think about Eric Dickerson’s allegations? Do you believe the NFL interfered with Shedeur Sanders’ draft prospects? Share your thoughts in the comments below!