Football | 10/14/2025 8:55:41 AM

The National Football League (NFL) Football Operations, in partnership with the four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) announced the 2025 Future Leaders in Football Fellows. The 2025 Fellows represent the next generation of football professionals and will gain valuable experience supporting their respective university programs this season.

Among this year’s representatives are Shelby Allen (North Carolina Central University), Brea Costango (Howard University), Simone Mishoe Thompson (Morgan State University), and Sarae Warrick (Norfolk State University).

In partnership with the four HBCU athletic conferences, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), and Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), the NFL Football Operations department continues to expand access and opportunity for HBCU students interested in careers across the football ecosystem.

This season, 16 students will assist their institution’s football programs in key operational areas such as athletic training, scouting and recruiting, football operations, equipment, and video. As part of the fellowship, each participant receives a stipend supported by the League office and will be evaluated throughout the program for future NFL developmental opportunities.

Highly rated fellows will also be invited to attend an NFL tentpole event, furthering their professional exposure and career development. The fellowship runs through the duration of the college football season, with fellows working directly alongside their institution’s football staff.

The Future Leaders in Football Fellowship underscores the NFL’s continued commitment to supporting HBCUs and fostering pathways for students to pursue long-term careers in the sport.