HBCU Football: The top 10 HBCU NFL Draft Prospects

Dec 21, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; North Carolina A&T Aggies running back Jah-Maine Martin (30) runs for a touchdown against the Alcorn State Braves in the third quarter of the Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; North Carolina A&T Aggies running back Jah-Maine Martin (30) runs for a touchdown against the Alcorn State Braves in the third quarter of the Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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3. Qwynnterrio Cole- Safety, Alcorn State

With Alcorn State joining the SWAC and not having a fall season in 2020, safety Qwynnterrio Cole may decide to return to Alcorn for one more season. Being an HBCU player and playing for a place that does not get much exposure, Cole might benefit from going back to school despite being pro-ready.

Cole has the prototypical measurements of an NFL safety at 6-foot-2 and over 200 pounds. Cole’s style of play fits the modern NFL defense focused on turnovers and stopping the pass. Since 2018, Cole has seven interceptions. A sure tackler, Cole was third on the team in tackles (86) in 2019.

Alcorn State used him wonderfully in its scheme to showcase his versatility. Cole demonstrated the ability to play his deep half or third of the field or come down to the box and play the run, each with equal comfort.

Cole was a standout receiver in high school in addition to playing safety. Cole’s instinct for playing the ball as a safety and high-pointing the ball against wide receivers is evidence of playing offense in high school. Because there is no tape of Cole this season due to Alcorn not playing, the draft process is crucial for Cole.

Cole needs to impress at his pro day to have the opportunity to be a draft pick. Whoever decides to draft Cole could find themselves with a late-round bargain.