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HBCU Receiver Could Be Dark Horse to Make Broncos' Roster

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Douglas Santo | Last updated Jun 12, 2025 11:20 AM ET

The Denver Broncos signed free agent receiver Joaquin Davis out of North Carolina Central University this offseason after he went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. But, going undrafted is just the tip of Davis' motivation.

The HBCU product didn't put up the most electric numbers in college, especially for his athletic ability. Davis played all four years of college ball at North Carolina Central and finished with 92 catches for 1,211 yards and 12 touchdowns.

However, Davis also played a pivotal role on special teams in college, which, paired with his athletic ability, could give him a route to a shot in the NFL.

Davis participated in HBCU Pro Day and had his chance to show his natural talent to scouts. The receiver is 6-foot-4, 195 pounds and ran a 4.36 40-yard dash with a vertical jump of 42 inches, according to his player profile.

North Carolina Central WR Joaquin Davis was one of the standouts at the HBCU Combine Monday at the Saints facility in New Orleans. The 6-4, 192 pounder ran a 4.44 40, had a 40.5 vertical and didn’t drop a pass thrown his way. Reports from the combine on The Insiders @nflnetwork,… pic.twitter.com/82FxS8ehBD
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) February 17, 2025

With his size, speed, and agility, Davis has a chance to make an impact in the NFL. His goal, though, make a big impact.

Davis said he wants to follow in the footsteps of Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice, who also went to an HBCU college.

"There hasn't been a receiver to come out of an HBCU in a while and really stick in the league. That's always something that's in the back of my mind, too," Davis said. "I want to be known as one of the greatest. Jerry Rice came from an HBCU, and he's one of the greatest receivers ever. Seeing him be able to do it, I know I can too."

Davis' college stats are a bit surprising when you look at his athletic ability on paper. However, when his college coach, Trei Oliver, spoke with reporters, he had only positive things to say.

"He practices hard and plays special teams, and he is physical," Oliver said. "He doesn't shy away from contact."

Davis contributed as a gunner on special teams at North Carolina Central. The Broncos have a crowded receiver room, but everyone knows how much Sean Payton values special-teams players.

The HBCU product has a lot of work to do for a chance to make the Broncos roster, but his raw ability as an athlete, paired with his special teams experience, could be just what he needs to earn a shot at his dreams.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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