Elijah Williams Signs with Minnesota Vikings, While Howard and Jackson State Claim HBCU Softball Titles
Minneapolis, Minnesota, May 14, 2025 – In a landmark achievement highlighting the rising talent from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Elijah Williams, a powerhouse defensive end from Morgan State University, has turned his NFL rookie minicamp invite into a contract with the Minnesota Vikings. Simultaneously, Howard University and Jackson State have captured their respective conference softball championships, earning automatic bids to the 2025 NCAA Softball Tournament and setting the stage for a showcase of HBCU athletic excellence on the national stage.
Elijah Williams’ journey epitomizes the perseverance and skill that continue to elevate HBCU athletes into the professional ranks. Undrafted but undeterred, Williams had a stellar collegiate career at Morgan State, where he shattered school records with 31 sacks and 52 tackles for loss across 42 games. His dominance earned him the 2024 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year award and a finalist spot for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award. After a standout performance at the Baltimore Ravens’ Local Pro Day—an event designed to spotlight regional prospects—Williams caught the eye of NFL scouts. Invited to the Vikings’ rookie minicamp as a tryout player, he impressed with a quick first step and relentless motor, turning the opportunity into a full contract. Williams’ signing serves as a beacon for HBCU football programs, underscoring the untapped talent residing within these historic institutions and the increasing recognition they are garnering in professional football circles.
Meanwhile, in collegiate softball, Howard University and Jackson State University have etched their names in the 2025 HBCU sports annals by winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championships, respectively. Howard, the top seed in the MEAC, secured a 6-1 victory against sixth-seeded South Carolina State to claim their first MEAC title since 2022. Key players like Kenna Higa—who contributed two RBI doubles—and MEAC Rookie of the Year Lauryn Jones led a dominant offensive and defensive display. This triumph grants Howard an automatic bid to the NCAA Softball Tournament, where they will compete in the Durham Regional against host Duke University, a program ranked 14th nationally.
Jackson State continued its softball dominance by clinching a second consecutive SWAC title with a 3-1 win over Florida A&M. The Tigers will enter the NCAA tournament as the fourth seed in the Tuscaloosa Regional, facing powerhouse Alabama—ranked 15th overall—along with Virginia Tech and Belmont. Both Howard and Jackson State are guaranteed at least two games in the double-elimination regionals, with aspirations to advance to the Super Regionals, the round of 16 in the tournament. These achievements highlight a rising competitiveness within HBCU softball programs as they gain visibility and challenge traditional softball powerhouses on the national stage.
These recent milestones represent more than wins; they reflect the cultural and athletic renaissance occurring across HBCU sports. From Williams’ breakthrough in professional football to the softball champions gearing up for national tournaments, HBCUs continue to build rich legacies grounded in resilience, community pride, and excellence. Coaches and players emphasize the importance of these victories not just for their programs but for the visibility they bring to HBCU sports overall.
Morgan State’s defensive coordinator remarked, “Elijah’s journey is a testament to the dedication and talent found at every HBCU. His success opens doors for countless others who aspire to play at the highest level.” Similarly, Howard’s head softball coach praised her team’s grit, saying, “Winning the MEAC championship and representing our conference on the national stage is a proud moment for our program and the entire Howard community.”
Looking ahead, Morgan State football and these softball programs are positioned for continued growth and greater exposure. Elijah Williams’ contract with the Vikings serves as an inspiration to HBCU athletes aiming for professional opportunities, signaling that NFL teams are increasingly scouting and valuing talent from these schools. Meanwhile, the upcoming NCAA softball regionals offer a platform for Howard and Jackson State to showcase their skills against nationally ranked opponents, potentially reshaping perceptions about HBCU competitiveness within Division I sports.
As HBCU athletics navigate evolving collegiate landscapes with NIL deals, transfer portals, and expanding media coverage, stories like these strengthen their sports narratives deeply tied to legacy, community, and opportunity. The progress witnessed today will fuel recruitment, alumni engagement, and fan enthusiasm for HBCU programs, ensuring they remain vital pillars in both sports and American culture.
Upcoming Schedule Highlights:
Howard University softball will face Duke in the NCAA Durham Regional starting May 16, aiming to secure wins and advance through the double-elimination format.
Jackson State softball opens the NCAA Tuscaloosa Regional against the University of Alabama on May 16, embarking on their quest to make a historic postseason run.
Minnesota Vikings’ rookie camp and training activities will provide Elijah Williams opportunities to prove himself and earn playing time as the NFL preseason approaches.
Together, these stories of triumph and opportunity signal a vibrant era for HBCU sports, where tradition meets new frontiers on both collegiate fields and professional arenas. The season ahead promises exciting developments that continue to honor the rich heritage while charting a progressive path forward for HBCU athletics.