The recent uproar over the lack of HBCU players selected in the 2023 NFL Draft has taken center stage in college football discussions. It was recently highlighted by University of Colorado football coach Deion Sanders, who expressed his disappointment over only one HBCU player being chosen. However, there is a glimmer of hope for these players after the announcement that Alabama State defensive lineman Brandon Gaddy was invited to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ rookie minicamp. He was one of only five HBCU athletes invited to participate in the camp, which will take place starting from Friday, at the Steelers’ complex in Pittsburgh.
Gaddy’s Career
Brandon Gaddy is a 6-foot-3, 295-pound defensive tackle out of Virginia Beach. He completed his SWAC career with 66 total tackles and 10.5 tackles for loss for the Hornets. Gaddy had 18 total tackles and a sack in his first two years at the University of Maryland. In February, Gaddy participated in the HBCU Legacy Bowl and was invited to UAB’s Pro Day, where he ran 5.60 seconds for the 40-yard dash with a 24-inch vertical.
Other HBCU Player Attendees
Gaddy will not be alone in his quest for success at the Steelers’ rookie minicamp. Other HBCU athletes attending this weekend’s camp will be Fort Valley State defensive back Tyler Moore, Morgan State running back Alfonzo Graham, Virginia Union offensive lineman Darian Bryant, and North Carolina A&T center Dacquari Wilson. With only four roster spots open, it’s expected that several of the athletes that will be participating in this weekend’s tryout will most likely be signed.
Message for Others
The invite of Brandon Gaddy to the Steelers’ rookie minicamp is a sign of hope for HBCU players everywhere. It serves as a reminder that even when there is no abundance of invites, one well-chosen player can make a significant impact. However, it also brings up the question of how many other talented HBCU players may have been overlooked during the NFL draft. Teams should rethink how they evaluate talent and broaden their horizons to include the HBCU players who may not have received the same level of exposure as others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the invite of Brandon Gaddy to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ rookie minicamp serves as a beacon of hope for HBCU players who have the talent but may have been overlooked. It also underlines the importance of considering the wider pool of talent when it comes to selecting players for the NFL. Every player deserves a chance to showcase their abilities, regardless of which college or university they attended. Hopefully, this is just the beginning of a trend that will continue to grow in the years to come.
<< photo by RF._.studio >>
