Latest news with #JadaByers
Miami Herald
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
HBCU Player of the Year signs with UFL
Despite a record-shattering collegiate career, Virginia Union star Jada Byers was not selected in the NFL Draft nor signed by any NFL teams. However, the HBCU standout is getting a professional opportunity-he is signing with the UFL's Memphis Showboats, according to a report from Steve Wyche of NFL Network. Byers, widely regarded as a generational talent at running back in HBCU football history, was named the 2024 Deacon Jones Award winner, an honor given to the top player in HBCU football. He also earned Black College Football Hall of Fame Player of the Year and CIAA Offensive Player of the Year accolades. The Virginia Union senior capped off his remarkable collegiate career as the school's all-time leading rusher. Nationally, he ranks second all-time in both CIAA and HBCU football history with 2,061 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns in the 2024 season alone. His legendary status was cemented with a record-breaking performance against Bowie State on October 26, where he rushed for 324 yards and six touchdowns, including a stunning 75-yard score. Though Byers was overlooked by the NFL, his signing with the UFL offers him a platform to showcase his talent and continue his football journey. His combination of vision, speed, and durability makes him a dangerous weapon out of the backfield, and the Memphis Showboats may have landed one of the biggest steals in alternative professional football. Byers' journey reflects the resilience often required of HBCU athletes striving for recognition at the professional level. With the UFL as his new stage, he'll look to prove that his name belongs among the best-regardless of league. The post HBCU Player of the Year signs with UFL appeared first on HBCU Gameday. Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
Miami Herald
22-02-2025
- Sport
- Miami Herald
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
