Virginia Union's Curtis Allen Crowned HBCU Football's Best, Poised for NFL Opportunity

As the highly anticipated 2026 HBCU Legacy Bowl approaches, the HBCU community is abuzz with the news that Virginia Union University's star running back, Curtis Allen, has been named the Black College Football Player of the Year for the 2025 season. This prestigious honor, the Deacon Jones Trophy, cements Allen's status as one of the most dominant and accomplished players in HBCU football history.

Allen's remarkable 2025 campaign saw him etch his name in the record books, setting a new CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) record by rushing for 2,409 yards (leading all of Division II) on 297 attempts, and scoring 30 touchdowns (also a Division II high). This included a jaw-dropping performance against Bluefield State, where he rushed for 369 yards and found the end zone five times.

In addition to being named the CIAA Offensive Player of the Year and a Division II All-American, Allen made history by becoming the first HBCU player to win the Harlon Hill Trophy, the Division II equivalent of the prestigious Heisman Trophy.

As Allen sets his sights on a professional career, he joins the illustrious list of Virginia Union players who have made it to the next level. Only 17 former Virginia Union stars have played in the NFL, with offensive lineman Herbert Scott being the only one to make a Pro Bowl. However, scouting reports suggest that Allen could be a "potential diamond in the rough," with ESPN College Football analyst Jordan Reid noting that he is a player "that people should have their eye on, especially for teams looking to add a determined runner to their running back committee."

"Curtis Allen is a player that people should have their eye on, especially for teams looking to add a determined runner to their running back committee."

HBCUConnect's Perspective: The recognition of Curtis Allen as the Black College Football Player of the Year is a testament to the incredible talent and potential that exists within the HBCU football landscape. As the HBCU community eagerly anticipates the 2026 HBCU Legacy Bowl, Allen's success serves as a reminder of the rich history and bright future of HBCU athletics. His story inspires the next generation of HBCU athletes to strive for greatness, and it demonstrates the ability of these institutions to cultivate and nurture elite-level talent. The HBCU community is proud to claim Curtis Allen as one of their own, and they eagerly await his professional journey, knowing that he will continue to represent the HBCU legacy with pride and determination.

Originally reported by HBCU Sports.