Football Stars Shine in 2025 NFL Draft">
Hornet Football Stars Shine in 2025 NFL Draft
MONTGOMERY — April 27, 2025 — Former Bama State Hornets are making waves in the professional ranks. Jacory Merrit was drafted by the Washington Commanders, while Kisean Johnson signed as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens. This 2025 NFL Draft success highlights the talent emerging from HBCUs. Understanding the journey of these athletes is just the beginning.
Hornet Football Stars Shine in 2025 NFL Draft
two former Bama State Hornets, Jacory Merrit and Kisean Johnson, are heading to the NFL after the 2025 NFL Draft.
By Khalil Stewart | April 27, 2025
Merrit Drafted by Commanders
Jacory Merrit, a former Hornet running back, heard his name called in the 2025 NFL draft. The Washington Commanders selected Merrit in the seventh round with the 245th overall pick. Merrit’s journey to the NFL included four years at bama State (including one COVID-affected season) before transferring to New Mexico and Arizona.During his time at Bama State, he made a significant impact, rushing for 1,164 yards and 13 touchdowns in 31 career games.
johnson Signs with Ravens as UDFA
Joining Merrit in the professional ranks is Kisean Johnson, a former hornet wide receiver. Johnson signed an undrafted free agent (UDFA) contract with the Baltimore Ravens. Similar to Merrit, Johnson spent four years (including one COVID season) at Bama State before transferring to Western Kentucky. His contributions to Bama State’s offense were considerable, as he caught 104 passes for 1,487 yards and 11 touchdowns in 33 career games.
HBCU Representation in the NFL
Merrit and Johnson’s success highlights the talent emerging from historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). For a comprehensive list of HBCU players drafted, signed as UDFAs, or invited to training camps in 2025, refer to the following resource:
SI.com’s HBCU Football to NFL Draft Tracker
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Did You Know?
Undrafted free agents often have a unique possibility to prove themselves in training camp and can sometimes make a bigger impact than some drafted players.
