Former NFL stars Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson descended upon the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) this offseason as Vick landed at Norfolk State University while Jackson joined Delaware State–both as head coaches.
While celebrity hires by in-conference rivals grabbed headlines over the winter break, Howard’s football program saw major additions, signing 17 new Bison on National Signing Day, according to a Dec. 5 press release.
The football program has made significant strides under head coach Larry Scott with the team looking to uphold the championship standard set under Scott, who led the team to back-to-back conference championship titles in 2022 and 2023.
Partnerships with networks and streaming platforms, most prominently Monumental Sports, have broadened the program’s visibility. The football program is also one of only 10 NCAA schools that are sponsored by Jordan brand.
Some recruits express that the athletic department’s emphasis on preparing students for life beyond sports is a critical factor in their decision. Its list of notable alumni gives the university added luster for student-athletes with big aspirations outside of athletics, according to one signee from the area.
“It’s more than football for me. Walking in the footsteps of America’s greatest leaders like Kamala Harris and Thurgood Marshall – it’s mesmerizing,” Aidan Foster, an incoming freshman linebacker from Wasington, D.C. said.
For Foster the university’s location in Washington, D.C. and its strong campus network provide a vibrant, supportive environment. Howard’s reputation as “The Mecca” of higher education and athletics was a major draw for him as well.
“Howard sets the standard because it’s The Mecca,” Foster said. “When I committed in July, I made a promise that my family and I were passionate about. I am determined to honor that commitment, no matter the challenges I face.”
For the players, NFL involvement in the MEAC is a source of motivation and excitement.
“I love it. It’s exciting to see the enthusiasm NFL players have towards HBCUs, but this is just the beginning. We need more players attending HBCUs and more support, just like for PWIs (Predominantly White Institutions),” Foster said.
David Parks, an incoming freshman from Sanford, Florida, also bought into the promise of more student-athlete development for HBCUs.
“The coaches really made Howard feel like home. From the first time speaking to Coach Woodbury and Scott to now has been the best relationship I’ve ever had with a coach,” Parks said.
Parks said the coaching staff values him as a player and “want the best out of” him even outside of football.
As Howard continues to invest in its football program, one of the new Bison is confident that the staff and established culture will help him make an impact.
“Howard’s football program influenced my decision through strong relationships with the coaches and teammates,” Parks said. “The supportive culture and their offensive style are a great fit for my skills and career goals.”
Copy edited by Aniyah Genama
