Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) football showcased exceptional talent during the 2026 HBCU Legacy Bowl, a nationally recognized event created to highlight athletes from historically Black colleges and universities. Quarterback Kelvin Durham, wide receiver DeAndre Proctor, and safety Daryl TJ Taybron all used this platform to enhance their visibility ahead of the NFL Draft, attracting attention for their standout performances.
Leading the charge was JCSU head coach Maurice Flowers, who served as co-head coach of Team Gaither. Coming off a stellar 10–2 record and a CIAA championship win with the Golden Bulls, Flowers helped guide Team Gaither to a narrow 27–23 victory over Team Robinson, setting event records for total offensive yards (619) and combined points scored (50).
Key Moments Highlighting JCSU’s Championship Chemistry
During the game’s third quarter, the familiar coordination between Durham and Proctor reappeared, demonstrating why their connection was vital to JCSU’s CIAA championship run. Durham rolled to his right and completed a precise back-shoulder 8-yard touchdown pass to Proctor, giving Team Gaither a 20–13 lead. This play mirrored one they executed months earlier to secure a spot in the CIAA Championship Game by defeating Livingstone College.
Durham, standing 6-foot-3, showed patience and composure throughout the week, managing the offense skillfully and delivering critical passes. In 2025, he was responsible for 36 total touchdowns, including 26 through the air and 10 on the ground. Meanwhile, Proctor, also 6-foot-3 and weighing 210 pounds, continued to excel at the catch point. Not only did he secure the touchdown, but he also made a notable 26-yard reception, showcasing his ability to find open space and maintain yards after the catch—skills highly valued by NFL scouts.
Recognition From NFL Analysts and Scouts
Proctor’s impressive performances did not go unnoticed. By the end of the event, NFL.com featured him among the
“2026 NFL Draft Prospects Who Impressed”
during the Legacy Bowl. Prominent NFL analyst Charles Davis praised Proctor’s playing style, commenting,
“Teams in need of strong, fast and physical receivers should be taking another look at Proctor,”
Davis said.
“His style of play reminds me of Notre Dame’s Malachi Fields.”
This level of recognition has elevated Proctor’s status from a small-school prospect to a legitimate contender in the draft evaluations. Multiple NFL teams showed strong interest in the JCSU players. The New Orleans Saints, hosting the event, closely studied Proctor’s route running and red-zone technique, while the Denver Broncos continued their trend of scouting HBCU talent by observing Durham’s offensive skills. Defensive prospects like Taybron caught the attention of representatives from the Baltimore Ravens and New York Giants during practices, highlighting his leadership and communication abilities in the secondary.
Daryl TJ Taybron’s Steady Presence on Defense
While touchdowns captured headlines, Taybron’s consistent and physical defense was equally crucial. As a four-year starter and first-team All-CIAA safety, he anchored a defense that limited opponents to 23 points and forced a late-game fumble that secured the win. Though he may not have generated as much buzz as Proctor, Taybron’s ability to command the secondary is a valued asset among NFL teams seeking dependable defensive backs.
Maurice Flowers Reflects on Legacy and Opportunity
For Maurice Flowers, coaching at the Legacy Bowl held deeper significance beyond strategy and statistics. Inspired by the trailblazing efforts of former quarterbacks Doug Williams and Shack Harris, he sees the game as an opportunity to honor their legacy. Being chosen by the very legends who founded the event to serve as co-head coach was deeply meaningful.
Flowers remarked,
“We owe it to people like Doug and Shack who have fought tooth and nail to get a great game like this,”
he said.
“To take advantage of this opportunity.”
He credited the groundwork laid by these pioneers for enabling his players to shine on such a prominent stage.
JCSU Football’s Rising National Profile and Future Prospects
Recently achieving its first NCAA Division II playoff appearance, JCSU football is experiencing a transformation rooted in strong leadership and sustained success. With a CIAA championship and a school-record 10 wins, the program has gained a national presence extending beyond its Charlotte base.
The 2026 NFL Draft now includes JCSU’s players in meaningful discussions. Proctor stands as one of the top HBCU prospects, while Durham is projected as a high-priority undrafted free agent with the potential to develop into a late-round selection. Taybron’s consistent play continues to build his value as a smart, physical defensive back.
These athletes didn’t merely participate in the Legacy Bowl; they enhanced its reputation, elevating both themselves and their university’s football program. As the Brick x Brick with JCSU Football series prepares a feature episode focusing on the CIAA championship and explores expanded distribution, the spotlight on these players intensifies.
The broader message is clear: JCSU football has firmly placed itself on the map, rising to compete at higher levels. As these players advance to NFL Draft meetings and begin their professional careers, they carry forward the Golden Bulls’ growing legacy and the belief that their climb is only just beginning.
