ESPN NFL draft analyst Jordan Reid released his annual watch list of 10 HBCU players who could draw interest in the 2027 NFL draft. The list arrives as the 2026 season kicks off with the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge between Alabama A&M and Howard at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta. Despite NFL efforts to boost exposure through events like the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl, zero HBCU players were selected in the 2024 and 2026 drafts, with only Alabama A&M offensive tackle Carson Vinson drafted in 2025.

Reid compiled the rankings after speaking with coaches, scouts, and evaluators this summer. The top prospect is Prairie View A&M cornerback Eric Zachery, a 6-foot-1, 185-pound junior who earned two interceptions and eight pass breakups in 2025 while leading an FCS-best defense allowing 17 points per game. Jackson State safety Kam Sallis, a 6-foot-1, 222-pound senior and former Kansas State transfer, was named the SWAC's preseason Defensive Player of the Year after totaling 53 tackles and two interceptions.

Alabama State dominates the offensive side with right tackle Elijah Baker (6-foot-4, 323 pounds) and quarterback Andrew Body. Baker allowed just two sacks in 2025, while Body earned SWAC Offensive Player of the Year honors directing an offense averaging 42.4 points per game. The list includes players from both FCS and Division II ranks, excluding recent transfers who didn't play at an HBCU last season.