Congrats to Seattle for winning the Super Bowl — now onto the NFL Draft.

Illinois could have several NFL Draft picks in 2026, continuing its hot streak under Illini HC Bret Bielema. He’s had 12 players drafted — including eight in the top-100 — since 2021. Only Penn State, Michigan and Ohio State are Big Ten programs who can say better.

According to Pro Football Focus:

OLB Gabe Jacas is the 40th ranked prospect, so that’s probably a 2nd round pick. Jacas led the Big Ten in sacks in 2025 with 11.

OL JC Davis is 111th, which is around 4th to 5th round. He was the 3rd highest graded tackle in college football in 2025, with a score of 87.8. He was also a first-team All-Big Ten selection.

DL James Thompson has made a jump to 218 — 224 players get drafted each season. The 320-pounder defensive lineman had a good season in Champaign after transferring from Wisconsin. If not for an injury in 2024 in Madison, he’d already be in the NFL most likely. In 2025, he had 17 solo tackles and two sacks, and coaches called him an “old soul” and locker room favorite.

QB Luke Altmyer sits at 220th. He led Illinois to 19 wins over two seasons — the most in program history. Altmyer was a top dual threat QB in college with nine rushing TDs in two seasons. And didn’t throw many interceptions, with 11 picks in two years.

WR Hank Beatty ranks at 288th. He shined in 2025 with a team-high 864 receiving yards in the slot. Beatty is a shifty, fast and sure handed wide out who was also a top Big Ten punt returner in both 2024 and 2025. He led the conference in average punt return yardage in 2024. He was also an Academic All-American in 2025.

TE Tanner Arkin ranks at 334th. Arkin showed a pulse as a receiving threat with 13 catches, 114 yards and two scores. But he thrives as a blocker, especially in the running game. The Colorado State transfer and team captain was also a top player in special teams. He could very well find a career in the NFL doing that.

DB Xavier Scott ranked 103rd, but elected to return for a 5th year in Champaign after playing just three games in 2025 due to injury. When healthy, he’s a top Big Ten player, and was first-team All-Conference in 2024. If he plays well in 2026, he could jump up draft boards.

S Matthew Bailey tested the NFL’s interest — Bielema sent his tape to NFL officials for them to grade and give feedback. After hearing input, Bailey wanted to return and improve his stock. Bielema said Bailey caught people’s eyes after his performance vs. Ohio State.