BALTIMORE, Md. (August 14, 2024) — The Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHOF) has released its 2024 Player of the Year Watch List, and Morgan State University is well-represented with three Bears making the prestigious list. The announcement came on Tuesday, recognizing the top candidates for the BCFHOF Player of the Year award.

The prestigious award is presented annually to the most outstanding football player from a Historically Black College & University (HBCU).

"The Black College Football Player of the Year Award highlights the incredible talent and dedication of today's HBCU football players," said Doug Williams, Super Bowl XXII MVP, BCFHOF Co-Founder and 2011 Inductee. "These student-athletes represent the very best of HBCU football."

Senior offensive lineman Treyvon Branch (White Plains, Md.), senior linebacker Erick Hunter (Capitol Heights, Md.) and senior defensive lineman Elijah Williams (Jersey City, N.J.) are among the recipients.

Branch has been named to the Preseason All-MEAC First Team, as announced by the conference office. The 6-foot-3, 290-pound senior, was an All-MEAC Second Team selection last season, playing a pivotal role on the Bears' offensive line. His consistent blocking helped pave the way for Morgan State's potent offense, which ranked among the top in the conference in several categories.

This season, Branch is expected to be a veteran leader in the trenches for the Bears. His experience and physicality will help power the Bears offense.

Hunter led the MEAC with 75 tackles and ranked No. 6 in tackles for loss (9.5). In addition to his elite tackling ability, Hunter also showcased his versatility and playmaking skills. He registered 7 quarterback hurries, 3.0 sacks (No. 11), two forced fumbles, two interceptions and a pass breakup. Hunter is poised to continue his impressive trajectory and lead Morgan to even greater success in the 2024 season.

Williams, also a member of the Stats Perform FCS Preseason All-America Team, was a defensive standout in the trenches for the Bears in 2023. His contributions to the team's success were undeniable, and he rightfully earned his place on the First-Team All-MEAC as one of the most dominant edge rushers in the conference.

The New Jersey product registered 50 total tackles, including 31 solo tackles. His ability to penetrate the offensive line and disrupt plays was unmatched, as evidenced by his league-leading 11.0 tackles for loss.

The Watch List candidates have been selected based on past performance and future potential. Additions to the list will be made as the 2024 season progresses. The finalists and the winner will be chosen by a Selection Committee.

After the season, four finalists are unveiled and the winner is presented with the prestigious Deacon Jones Trophy.

"The Deacon Jones Trophy is regarded as the most prestigious and recognized award in HBCU football," said BCFHOF co-founder and 2012 inductee James Harris. "Deacon is still considered one of the greatest to play the game and is a legend in every way, shape, and form, and to this day, still represents the very best of Black College Football."

The announcement is held during halftime of the 2025 Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl. The bowl takes place Saturday, February 22, 2025, in New Orleans and broadcasted live on NFL Network.

For more information, visit the HBCU Legacy Bowl website at www.HBCULegacyBowl.com and/or the Black College Football Hall of Fame website at www.BlackCollegeFootballHOF.org.