Former HBCU Football stars find a home in the new XFL

MEAC Players in the XFL:

Brycen Alleyne: Running Back, Delaware State: 

Few players had a more interesting journey to the XFL. After playing for the Hornets for four years, Alleyne found himself in the Fan Controlled Football league, where he was discovered. Alleyne is a versatile player with experience as a slot receiver and running back.

Justin Smith: Wide Receiver, Norfolk State: 

Drafted by the Houston Roughnecks, Smith finished his collegiate career as an all-MEAC performer, finishing second in the conference in receptions and yards. Smith emerged in 2019 with 639 receiving yards as a junior. His over 17 yards a reception proves his ability as a deep ball receiver.

Jah-Maine Martin, running back, North Carolina A&T:

Guardians’ running back Jah-Maine Martin is one of the most decorated players in NCA&T history. Martin was an All-MEAC, HBCU All-American, and an FCS-All-American in 2019 after rushing for 1446 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2019. Martin dealt with an MCL injury, which led to a less productive 2021 (he sat out 2020 due to the pandemic).

Zafir Kelly: Defensive Back, South Carolina State:

Sea Dragons’ defensive back Zafir Kelly is another player from HBCU football with NFL experience, having signed with the Green Bay Packers in 2022. Kelly was an anchor on SCSU head coach Oliver Pugh’s defense in 2021. Kelly played a lot of football for the Bulldogs and, with his size (6-foot-1), should have success in the XFL.