HBCU Original at NFL Pro Bowl Week – Featuring KhaDarel Hodge & NFL Stars! 🏈🔥

This year’s NFL Pro Bowl Week was a powerful showcase of talent, unity, and the growing impact of HBCUs in professional football. HBCU Original was on the ground, capturing the action, bringing exclusive coverage of Atlanta Falcons wide receiver and Prairie View A&M alumnus, KhaDarel Hodge, and other NFL stars.

Hodge didn’t just represent his team—he represented ALL HBCUs at the Pro Bowl, proving that HBCU talent deserves to be recognized at the highest level! In our 1-on-1 interview, he shared his journey, his thoughts on the rising presence of HBCUs in the league, and how he hopes to inspire the next generation of HBCU athletes.

But we didn’t stop there—we also spoke with some of the biggest names in the NFL, including:
🏈 Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings)
🏈 Mike Evans (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
🏈 Dexter Lawrence (New York Giants)
🏈 Drake Maye (New England Patriots)
🏈 James Cook (Buffalo Bills)

They all shared their perspectives on HBCU representation, the evolution of the game, and how the league continues to recognize and celebrate HBCU talent.

2025 NFL Pro Bowl Rosters – Full List

AFC Pro Bowl Roster

Offense

• Quarterbacks: Josh Allen (Bills)*, Joe Burrow (Bengals), Lamar Jackson (Ravens) → (Replaced by Drake Maye, Patriots)
• Running Backs: Derrick Henry (Ravens)* → (Replaced by James Cook, Bills), Joe Mixon (Texans), Jonathan Taylor (Colts)
• Wide Receivers: Ja’Marr Chase (Bengals), Jerry Jeudy (Browns), Nico Collins (Texans), Zay Flowers (Ravens) → (Replaced by Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars)
• Tight Ends: Brock Bowers (Raiders)*, Travis Kelce (Chiefs) → (Replaced by Jonnu Smith, Dolphins)
• Offensive Line: Dion Dawkins (Bills), Laremy Tunsil (Texans) → (Replaced by Ronnie Stanley, Ravens), Rashawn Slater (Chargers)

Defense

• Defensive Ends: Myles Garrett (Browns), Trey Hendrickson (Bengals), Maxx Crosby (Raiders) → (Replaced by Danielle Hunter, Texans)
• Linebackers: Roquan Smith (Ravens)* → (Replaced by Patrick Queen, Steelers), Zaire Franklin (Colts)
• Cornerbacks: Derek Stingley Jr. (Texans), Patrick Surtain II (Broncos), Marlon Humphrey (Ravens), Denzel Ward (Browns)

Special Teams

• Return Specialist: Marvin Mims Jr. (Broncos)*
• Special Teamer: Brenden Schooler (Patriots)* → (Replaced by Miles Killebrew, Steelers)

NFC Pro Bowl Roster

Offense

• Quarterbacks: Jared Goff (Lions)*, Jayden Daniels (Commanders) → (Replaced by Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers), Sam Darnold (Vikings)
• Running Backs: Saquon Barkley (Eagles)* → (Replaced by Bijan Robinson, Falcons), Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions), Josh Jacobs (Packers)
• Wide Receivers: Justin Jefferson (Vikings), Amon-Ra St. Brown (Lions) → (Replaced by Malik Nabers, Giants), CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys) → (Replaced by Mike Evans, Buccaneers), Terry McLaurin (Commanders) → (Replaced by Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seahawks)
• Tight Ends: George Kittle (49ers)*, Trey McBride (Cardinals)

Defense

• Defensive Ends: Nick Bosa (49ers), Micah Parsons (Cowboys), Rashan Gary (Packers)
• Linebackers: Fred Warner (49ers)*, Zack Baun (Eagles) → (Replaced by Bobby Wagner, Commanders)
• Cornerbacks: Jaylon Johnson (Bears), Byron Murphy (Vikings), Jaycee Horn (Panthers), Devon Witherspoon (Seahawks)

Special Teams

• Return Specialist: KaVontae Turpin (Cowboys)*
• Special Teamer: KhaDarel Hodge (Falcons) 🔥 Representing HBCUs!

HBCU Representation at the NFL Pro Bowl

With KhaDarel Hodge earning a Pro Bowl selection, it’s clear that HBCUs continue to leave a lasting impact on professional football. His journey from Prairie View A&M to the NFL is proof that HBCU athletes belong on the biggest stages.

As HBCUs gain more recognition, the pipeline from HBCUs to the NFL is stronger than ever. The Pro Bowl is just another milestone in a movement that continues to grow each year.

HBCU Original will always be there to tell these stories, uplift these athletes, and show the world the power of HBCU sports! 🔥🏆

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Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are an integral part of many corporate spaces—but things are changing. Over the past few years, DEI has been embraced by companies looking to create a workforce that reflects the communities they serve. Now, though, some businesses are scaling back, leaving many of us in HBCU communities wondering what this means for our opportunities and progress.

Let’s break it down:

Why the Retreat on DEI?

A mix of political pressures, legal challenges, and shareholder concerns have driven some of the biggest names in corporate America to rethink their DEI commitments. Companies that once stood boldly behind inclusive hiring, employee resource groups (ERGs), and supplier diversity initiatives are now scaling back—or rebranding those efforts.

For instance:

• Terms like “equity” are being swapped for “belonging” or “diversity of thought.”
• High-profile organizations like Amazon and Boeing have cut back or outright dismantled their DEI teams.

For HBCU students and alumni, who are often a focus of these programs, this shift raises questions about representation and access to opportunity in industries that have traditionally been less inclusive.

Companies Scaling Back

Here’s a quick look at some major companies making significant changes:

• Amazon: Ended certain DEI programs, calling them outdated.
• Boeing: Closed its global DEI department entirely in 2023.
• Meta: Cut DEI hiring programs and scaled back supplier diversity.
• Target: Completed its three-year DEI goals but pulled back on external diversity surveys.

These shifts don’t just impact employees already working in these companies—they can also make internships, partnerships, and recruitment opportunities harder to come by for HBCU students.

Who’s Still Standing Firm?

Not every company is stepping away from DEI. In fact, some are doubling down, emphasizing how diversity is not only right but also a smart business move.

• Apple: Encouraged shareholders to reject anti-DEI proposals and reaffirmed its commitment to creating a diverse workforce.
• Delta Air Lines: Called DEI a critical part of its business success during a recent earnings call.
• Salesforce: CEO Marc Benioff stood firm, stating that diverse perspectives drive better business outcomes.
• Cisco: CEO Chuck Robbins said that a diverse team delivers measurable success.

These companies are leading by example, showing how DEI creates spaces where everyone can thrive—including HBCU alumni and students.

What’s the Impact on HBCUs?

For HBCUs, corporate DEI programs have long been an important bridge, connecting students to internships, scholarships, and post-grad careers. As these programs diminish, HBCU graduates could face additional challenges breaking into certain industries or ascending the corporate ladder.

But there’s good news: the value of an HBCU education doesn’t hinge on corporate trends. As students and alumni, we carry the legacy of resilience, excellence, and community that no DEI initiative can erase.

How Can You Stay Ready?

Even as DEI landscapes shift, here are ways you can stay ahead:

• Build Your Network: Leverage HBCU alumni associations, LinkedIn groups, and other professional networks to create connections in your field.
• Be Informed: Keep up with companies actively recruiting HBCU students or maintaining DEI efforts.
• Own Your Value: Highlight the unique skills and perspectives you bring to the table as an HBCU graduate.

Final Thoughts

Change can be unsettling, but it’s important to remember: while companies may scale back DEI, they can’t take away the impact HBCU students and alumni have made—and will continue to make. Whether it’s in boardrooms, classrooms, or on Capitol Hill, the legacy of HBCUs is unstoppable.

Keep pushing. Keep networking. Keep building. Because no matter how corporate trends shift, our community remains strong and thriving.

What’s your take on these changes? Let’s talk in the comments!

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) has secured a transformative $25 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to enhance the capacity of both the organization and its member institutions, which include historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

This significant funding will support Project HBCU Capacity Building: Maximizing HBCU Performance Through Investments in Research, Operations, and Innovation. Through this initiative, TMCF aims to address pressing infrastructure challenges and foster innovation within HBCUs. By prioritizing student support and enabling institutions to tackle underfunded initiatives, the project seeks to drive operational excellence and bolster institutional capabilities.

“This extraordinary grant allows us to better serve our campuses and students, opening doors for innovative solutions to unique challenges,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, president and CEO of TMCF. “We are grateful to Lilly Endowment for their trust in our mission and vision.”

Racquel Oden, chair of the TMCF Board of Directors and HSBC Head of Wealth, Premier & Global Private Banking, US, emphasized the grant’s transformative potential. “This funding empowers us to advance our mission and make a lasting impact on our students and campuses. We deeply appreciate Lilly Endowment’s confidence in our efforts.”

Key Strategies for Project HBCU Capacity Building
The initiative will focus on three core areas:

1. Improving Administrative Systems: TMCF plans to implement a data management system to streamline data collection and information sharing while offering professional development opportunities like project management and process improvement for staff.
2. Fostering Collaborative Learning: Member institutions will form cohorts to share best practices and resources, with programs aimed at improving enrollment, student services, and community engagement.
3. Providing Targeted Grants: Select member institutions will have access to competitive grant opportunities and technical support. These grants aim to strengthen research and faculty development, improve retention and graduation rates, enhance workforce readiness, and modernize technology systems for enrollment and financial aid.

Ted Maple, Lilly Endowment’s vice president for education, highlighted TMCF’s critical role in advancing HBCU success. “TMCF provides exceptional support to its member institutions, helping students achieve their educational and career goals. We are pleased to support these efforts.”

Over the next five years, TMCF anticipates significant advancements in institutional performance, benefiting not only participating HBCUs but the broader HBCU community through collaborative learning and shared growth.

About TMCF
Founded in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting Black colleges and universities. Representing publicly supported HBCUs, historically Black community colleges, and predominantly Black institutions, TMCF supports nearly 80% of students attending Black colleges. Through scholarships, innovative programs, and partnerships, TMCF plays a vital role in higher education and workforce development.

About Lilly Endowment Inc.
Established in 1937, Lilly Endowment Inc. is a private foundation based in Indianapolis. Created by J.K. Lilly and his sons, the foundation focuses on community development, education, and religion. While its reach spans the United States, Lilly Endowment maintains a special commitment to supporting initiatives in its home state of Indiana.

This grant marks a pivotal moment in TMCF’s efforts to drive excellence across HBCUs, enabling these institutions to continue transforming lives and communities nationwide.

Top 10 Cities for Science & Tech Jobs in 2025: Insights for HBCU Students

With tech roles projected to grow significantly through 2033, here are the best cities to consider for launching a career in science and technology. These cities offer diverse job opportunities, competitive salaries, and strong networking ecosystems.