On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the HBCU Legacy Bowl took place at Yulman Stadium in New Orleans, Louisiana. This all-star game is for the best senior football players from HBCUs. The event provides these athletes with a chance to showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts and football fans from across the country, as the game is broadcast on the NFL Network. For many players, this game is one of the biggest opportunities of their football careers.
The game featured two teams: Team Gaither and Team Robinson. These teams came from legendary HBCU coaches Jake Gaither and Eddie Robinson, who helped pave the way for black college football. The game was exciting from start to finish, with big plays on offense and strong defense from both sides. The final score was 27-23, with Team Gaither defeating Team Robinson. The matchup was competitive from the opening kickoff, with both teams trading touchdowns and field goals in the first half. At halftime, the score was tied 13–13, both teams seeming to be even with each other. In the second half, Team Gaither gained momentum with a touchdown pass and a key defensive interception that led to another score. Team Robinson fought back with a defensive touchdown and a late field goal, but Team Gaither held on to secure the victory.
One of the biggest stars of the All-Star game was Winston-Salem State running back JaQuan Kelly, who won Offensive MVP. Kelly rushed for 76 yards and scored two touchdowns, including the game-winning score late in the game. He performed at a high level, showing his speed, his strength, and his burst. This was impressive to NFL scouts watching the game. On the other side of the ball, South Carolina State defensive lineman Michael Lunz II earned Defensive MVP honors for his great performance. These players showed the high level of talent that exists in HBCU football programs.
The participants from Southern University included the likes of Ckelby Givens and Dupree Fuller Jr. Defensive End Ckelby Givens did not suit up for the game, as he was nursing a lower-body injury. However, throughout his career at Southern, he was a multiple time consensus All-American, as well as multiple First Team All-SWAC Honors. The other representative of the Jaguars was Tight End Dupree Fuller Jr. He did suit up for the game and had a very impressive showing, demonstrating his power in the run blocking game and his soft hands in the passing game. The scouts were awed by his combination of speed and strength, as well as his versatility.
The Legacy Bowl is about more than just football. The event also includes career fairs, networking opportunities, and workshops to help players prepare for life after college. This is important because not every player will go on to play professionally. The Legacy Bowl helps athletes build connections and prepare for successful careers off the field as well.
