2014 NFL Draft: HBCU Free Agent Signees; TSU Tigers' Pair Drafted

Even though no SWAC player was among those taken during the seven rounds of the 2014 NFL Draft, several notable prospects signed free-agent deals.

Isaiah Crowell – Alabama State – Cleveland

“Crowell is arguably the most gifted RB in this draft class with the NFL talent to be an impact starter and be as good as he wants, but needs to develop a professional demeanor, keep his nose clean and come to work every day with the same drive – draft projection and NFL future depends on the baggage and maturity, but the talent is there for him to quickly become an impact NFL player.” –Brugler

Rob Smith -Jackson State – Oakland

Smith is an intriguing option for any NFL franchise. He is an intelligent hard-worker, that just does not quit until he reaches his goal. Every NFL team is searching for these characteristics in a player.

Lee Doss – Southern – Washington

More quick than fast, very good in the open field. Will try to make the team initially as a kick returner

Qua Cox – Jackson State – Indianapolis

The 6-foot, 185-pounder was a two-time first-team selection to the All-SWAC team and recoreded six pass breakups this past season after picking off five passes as a junior.

Rashaun Allen – Southern -Seattle

“I feel like there is no ceiling for me,” said Allen. “I think a lot of teams saw the best in me today.”

Two Tennessee State players get drafted

Former offensive linemen, Kadeem Edwards and Demetrius Rhaney, were selected on day three of the 2014 NFL Draft. Edwards, a native of Sanford, will return to the Sunshine State as the Bucs’ fourth selection in the draft, the 143rd pick overall.

Rhaney waited until the seventh round and the 250th pick before the St. Louis Rams called his name.

The 2014 draft marks the first time since 2000 for two Tigers to go in the same draft. Tackle Michael Thompson was selected in the 4th round, Np.100, by the Atlanta Falcons, while WR Avion Black was taken 21 picks later by the Buffalo Bills

“It was a very special day for me and my family,” Edwards said. “Just to hear my name called at the graduation and then hear my name called on the TV for the draft, it was such a blessing.”

The Rams did not secure any mid-round offensive linemen, but St. Louis did select a huge small-school prospect out of Portland State—offensive tackle Mitchell Van.

Rhaney, of course, was the icing. The Rams now have a competent group of rookie linemen to bring into training camp.

Tags: SWAC