NFL Draft Spotlight Shines Bright on HBCU Talent with Bhayshul Tuten’s Selection
As the 2025 NFL Draft concluded, a significant moment for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) unfolded. Bhayshul Tuten, formerly of North Carolina A&T, was chosen by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fourth round, highlighting the increasing recognition of HBCU talent in professional football. Tuten, known for his electrifying speed, recorded the fastest 40-yard dash among running backs at the NFL Combine with a 4.32-second time.
Tuten’s journey from Paulsboro High School in New Jersey to the NFL is a testament to the pipeline of athletic talent emerging from HBCUs. He initially committed to North Carolina A&T State University before transferring to Virginia Tech, where he excelled as a dual-threat running back. Tuten averaged 6.3 yards per carry and amassed 15 touchdowns in his senior year, showcasing his potential for success at the next level.
The selection of Tuten and other HBCU prospects like Carson Vinson from Alabama A&M and Shedeur Sanders from Jackson State underscores the growing visibility of HBCU athletes in the NFL draft. This visibility not only reflects the athletic prowess of these players but also contributes to the cultural impact HBCUs have on American sports.
“Bhayshul Tuten’s selection is a powerful reminder of the talent and dedication of athletes from HBCUs,” noted a Virginia Tech athletic official. “His story will undoubtedly inspire future generations of student-athletes, reinforcing the rich athletic tradition that defines our institutions.”
Tuten’s selection is also a nod to the enduring legacy of HBCU sports, which have played a pivotal role in shaping both sports and civil rights history in America. These institutions have long been incubators for exceptional talent, often against the backdrop of limited resources and mainstream recognition. The increased attention to HBCU athletes in the NFL draft signals a broader shift in how these athletes are valued and recognized in the sports world.
In addition to his football prowess, Tuten demonstrated versatility as a kick returner, scoring two 90-plus-yard kick returns during his time at Virginia Tech. His dynamic performance on the field resonates with HBCU fans and alumni who appreciate the unique blend of athletic talent and cultural significance these institutions represent.
As Tuten embarks on his NFL journey, he joins a Jacksonville Jaguars team looking to capitalize on his speed and agility. His arrival coincides with rising interest in HBCU sports, driven in part by recent trends like name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements and the transfer portal. These developments are transforming the college athletics landscape, offering new opportunities for HBCU athletes to gain exposure and financial support.
Looking ahead, the 2025 NFL season will be pivotal for Tuten and other HBCU alumni as they seek to make their mark in the professional league. Their success will not only contribute to the growth of their respective teams but also reinforce the importance of HBCUs in fostering talented, resilient, and dedicated athletes.
For HBCU fans, Tuten’s selection is more than just a sports story; it is a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of these historic institutions. As the NFL continues to discover and develop HBCU talent, the stage is set for a new era of recognition and celebration of the athletic and cultural contributions of Black colleges and universities.