2024 NFL Draft shows ongoing progress for Black quarterbacks

Chicago Bears No. 1 draft pick quarterback Caleb Williams smiles as he listens to reporters during an NFL football news conference in Lake Forest, Ill., Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh) & by Amanda Scurlock, Los Angeles Sentinel Sports Editor USC standout Caleb Williams and LSU player Jayden Daniels being the top two picks of the 2024 NFL Draft marks the second consecutive year that a pair of Black quarterbacks were deemed the top draft prospects. Throughout history, the NFL refused to grant Black athletes access to the quarterback position, even if they had proficient college careers. Last season, the NFL had the most Black quarterbacks starting in week one in history with 14. They are just two of three black quarterbacks that were the top 10 draft picks with Washington Huskies Michael Penix Jr. going eighth overall. Both& Williams& and& Daniels& were featured in Student Athlete of the Week during their college careers. Williams brought USC into national prominence during the 2022 season. His 4,537 total passing yards and 382 total rushing yards would earn him the Heisman Trophy during the 2022 season. Williams noted how he is ready to take on the expectations and pressures of...