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topicnews · August 29, 2024

FAMU places four players on NFL rosters for start of 2024 season

FAMU places four players on NFL rosters for start of 2024 season

When Willie Simmons came to FAMU in 2018, there was not a single FAMU player in the National Football League. The last one drafted was Brandon Hepburn of the Detroit Lions in 2013 in the Joe Taylor era. While no players have been drafted in the Willie Simmons era, FAMU sent several undrafted free agents to the NFL during his tenure.

“When we came in, we didn’t have a single scout who could attend our Pro Day,” Simmons recalls. “Fast forward to the Pro Days of Markquese Bell, Xavier Smith and Isaiah Land and basically every team was there.”

Marks Bell, FAMU, NFL

Markquese Bell has resumed his outstanding game for the Dallas Cowboys

The Rattlers had the opportunity to do something they hadn’t done in a long time, which was to place four players on the NFL roster after solid preseasons. On August 28,th By the time the final team lineups were finalized, FAMU had made a successful turnaround in the NFL.

The biggest name of the bunch is Bell, who was named the 2023 Black College Football NFL Player of the Year. His play last season was outstanding as he showcased his abilities as a hybrid player. He is a natural safety but also played middle linebacker when the Cowboys struggled with injuries. He was the second-leading tackler on the team and stood out as a breakout player.

Land has made significant progress this preseason. He was considered undersized when he entered the league, but has developed into a solid edge rusher for the Indianapolis Colts.

Zay Smith, FAMU, NFLZay Smith, FAMU, NFL

Wide receiver/kick returner Xavier Smith is part of the Los Angeles Rams training squad

Smith, a wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, has shown more action in the preseason. He is known as a speedy athlete, running the 40-yard dash in 4.38 seconds at the HBCU Combine. His ability to run routes has made him a true NFL wide receiver. The Rams initially released him, but they quickly snapped him up for a spot on the practice squad.

The fourth wheel in this equation is Terrell Jennings. Jennings excelled as the Rattlers’ running back last season, improving his frame, concentration and speed. Jennings was signed as a free agent by the New England Patriots and was the Patriots’ best runner in two preseason games. He was released during final cuts, but within 24 hours he too was signed to the practice squad.

Isaiah Land, FAMU, NFLIsaiah Land, FAMU, NFL

In addition, the Rattlers also sent All-American quarterback Jeremy Moussa and All-SWAC receiver Marcus Riley to training camp. Riley with the New York Jets and Moussa with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Edge rusher Isaiah Land is with the Indianapolis Colts

FAMU, NFL, Terrell JenningsFAMU, NFL, Terrell Jennings

Terrell Jennings has joined the New England Patriots training squad

Simmons is pleased with the attention the program is receiving.

“For me, part of building a championship is improving the graduation rate, winning championships and getting guys to the highest level. Going from our first year with zero scouts to four in the league and two on the active roster is progress. It took not only us as coaches, but the administration, the fans and the alumni. Everyone pitched in. The good thing is that with the exception of Bell, all three of them were FAMU graduates starting in high school. So many people forget that Xavier Smith came to us as a walk-on,” Simmons concluded.

FAMU places four players on NFL rosters for start of 2024 season

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