CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Following the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft where 3 Illinois football players were selected, 8 additional players have chances to land on NFL rosters for the upcoming season.
Six different Illini signed Undrafted Free Agent contracts. Quarterback Luke Altmyer and offensive lineman Melvin Priestly signed deals with the Detroit Lions.
Tight end Tanner Arkin will join Illinois' first draft pick of this year, Gabe Jacas, by signing with the New England Patriots.
Defensive Tackle James Thompson Jr. signed a deal with the San Fransisco 49ers.
Offensive lineman Josh Gesky inked a contact with the Green Bay Packers.
Rochester native Hank Beatty, a wide receiver and return specialist, signed on with the Tennessee Titans.
In addition to the free agent signings, OL Josh Kreutz and linebacker Dylan Rosiek were given invitations to rookie mini camps. Kreutz will have the chance to show off his skills with the Chicago Bears and New York Giants, while Rosiek will perform for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Illini's three draftees of Jacas, J.C. Davis, and Miles Scott, tops their 2025 total where wide receiver Pat Bryant was the lone selection in the 3rd round by the Denver Broncos.
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