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Ravens Host MEAC Media Day, Elevating HBCU Football’s Visibility

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated May 23, 2025 10:37 PM ET

When the gates of M&T Bank Stadium open on July 22, it won’t be for Lamar Jackson or a Ravens preseason scrimmage—it’ll be for something even more symbolic: the rise of HBCU football. The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) is bringing its 2025 Football Media Day to Baltimore, marking the first time the event will take place inside an NFL stadium.

In a powerful show of respect and progress, the Baltimore Ravens are partnering with the MEAC to spotlight a conference steeped in tradition—and now, surging with momentum.

“This is a historic milestone for the MEAC,” said Commissioner Sonja Stills. “Hosting our Football Media Day at an NFL venue reflects the growing visibility, strength, and momentum of our conference.”

The buzz surrounding this year’s event is impossible to ignore—and a lot of it has to do with two familiar NFL names taking the HBCU sidelines by storm. Former Pro Bowl quarterback Michael Vick is now leading Norfolk State, while dynamic wideout DeSean Jackson takes the reins at Delaware State. Their arrival is doing more than turning heads—it’s turning the page on what HBCU coaching leadership can look like.

“We’re proud to host the MEAC’s annual Media Day at M&T Bank Stadium, showcasing six of the region’s premier HBCUs,” said Ravens President Sashi Brown

MEAC teams have long punched above their weight in developing NFL-ready talent. In fact, over 40 MEAC alumni have played in the league over the past 15 years, including names like Tarik Cohen and Javon Hargrave. But now the narrative isn’t just about the athletes—it’s about the platforms they’re being given and the leaders guiding them.

By placing MEAC Media Day in a city like Baltimore—a majority-Black, football-obsessed community—the event becomes more than a press conference. It’s a rally cry for respect, investment, and visibility.

For fans of HBCU sports, it’s time to show up. Whether you’re repping NCCU or rallying behind Howard, July 22 is your chance to celebrate a new era in Black college football.

Don’t just watch the game. Be part of the movement.

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

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