HBCU football's top honor given to record-breaking back
Jada Byers has been named the recipient of the prestigious Deacon Jones Award, recognizing him as the top player in HBCU football for the 2024 season. The Virginia Union star put together a historic campaign, solidifying his place as one of the greatest running backs in HBCU history.
Byers finished his career as Virginia Union's all-time leading rusher, while also ranking second all-time in CIAA and HBCU history, trailing only Winston-Salem State legend Richard Huntley. His 2024 season was nothing short of dominant, as he rushed for 2,061 yards and 27 touchdowns, leading Virginia Union to another strong campaign. His performance was highlighted by a record-setting game against Bowie State on October 26, where he exploded for 324 rushing yards and six touchdowns, including a 75-yard scoring run.
The Deacon Jones Award is given annually to the top HBCU football player, and Byers' resume left no doubt he was deserving. In addition to his gaudy rushing totals, he contributed in the passing game with 154 receiving yards and was a factor in special teams with 180 punt return yards. His versatility and game-breaking ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses throughout the season.
Byers is set to compete in the HBCU Legacy Bowl as he looks to break into the pros.
Jada Byers' impact on the field and in the record books ensures his name will be mentioned among the all-time greats. With the Deacon Jones Award now in his trophy case, his legacy as one of the most dominant players in HBCU football history is firmly established.
The post HBCU football's top honor given to record-breaking back appeared first on HBCU Gameday.
Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Miami Herald
2 hours ago
- Miami Herald
HBCU sprinter earns First Team All-America status
Jordan Pierre, a sophomore from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), delivered a breakout performance Friday night at the 2025 NCAA Track & Field National Championships, confirming his place among the elite of collegiate sprinting. Racing at the world-renowned Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, Pierre clocked a strong 45.75 seconds in the 400-meter final, securing third place overall and earning the highly coveted First-Team All-American honors. The finish marked a significant moment for both Pierre and the UAPB track and field program. Pierre's journey to the podium was no overnight success. Earlier this spring, he finished second in the 400 meters at the SWAC Outdoor Championships, just behind Alcorn State's Trellas Forrest. That near-miss served as motivation. In the NCAA semifinals, Pierre rose to the occasion by posting a personal best of 45.44 seconds, punching his ticket to the national final with confidence and composure. His performance adds to the growing legacy of UAPB Head Coach Chris McCoy, who has now guided a student-athlete to the NCAA Nationals and an All-American finish for four consecutive years. This consistency highlights the strength and growth of the Golden Lions' track and field program. "Jordan has worked tirelessly for this moment, and to see him shine on this stage is truly special," said Coach McCoy. "It's a proud day for UAPB." Pierre's achievement not only elevates his personal profile but also places the Golden Lions firmly on the national track and field map - a signal that UAPB continues to be a force to watch on the NCAA stage. The post HBCU sprinter earns First Team All-America status appeared first on HBCU Gameday. Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
Miami Herald
2 hours ago
- Miami Herald
HBCU Hoops: Grambling picks up explosive mid-major scorer
Paul McMillan IV, one of the top-scoring guards in mid-major basketball, is ready to show his talents with HBCU basketball. The leading scorer from the MAAC last season has officially transferred to Grambling State University, giving the Tigers a major backcourt boost heading into the 2025–26 season. McMillan arrives after a standout year at Canisius, where he averaged 20.0 points per game-ranking second in the MAAC and among the top 25 scorers nationally. The Cincinnati native brings veteran experience and a proven scoring ability to a Grambling team entering a new era under recently hired head coach Patrick Crarey. Crarey, who spent last season as the head coach at Florida A&M (FAMU), takes over at Grambling with a fast-paced, high-tempo coaching philosophy that is expected to align perfectly with McMillan's dynamic offensive style. His system emphasizes transition play and guard creativity, both strengths of McMillan's game. McMillan's college journey includes stops at NJIT and Central Michigan before his breakout season at Canisius, where he twice scored a career-high 31 points and became the program's first 20 PPG scorer in over a decade. Prior to college, he was a high school standout at Woodward High School (OH), finishing with 2,658 career points, seventh-most in Ohio history. The transfer marks a significant addition to the HBCU basketball landscape. As more high-impact athletes commit to HBCU programs, McMillan's move to Grambling is further proof of the growing competitiveness and visibility of these institutions at the national level. With McMillan in the lineup and Crarey on the sidelines, Grambling is poised to contend in the SWAC and make noise beyond. For a proud HBCU program, this pairing signals a powerful step forward. The post HBCU Hoops: Grambling picks up explosive mid-major scorer appeared first on HBCU Gameday. Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
86-Year-Old Charlotte basketball player receives national recognition
An 86-year-old basketball player from Charlotte is receiving national recognition. Gail Eppley was named one of Humana's 2025 Game Changers, according to the Hickory Record. ALSO READ: 'A blessing': HBCU basketball teams to play in tournament at Bojangles Coliseum Advertisement She was one of ten senior athletes chosen nationwide for the honor. Eppley competes in three-on-three basketball, playing with the Hickory's Red Foxes. VIDEO: 'A blessing': HBCU basketball teams to play in tournament at Bojangles Coliseum
