Fighting Illini Find NFL Homes: Bryant Drafted, Coleman & Edwards Sign as Free Agents
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Archyde.com) — The University of Illinois football program continues to send talent to the National Football League, with wide receiver Pat Bryant selected in the 2025 NFL Draft and several other players signing as undrafted free agents.
Pat Bryant Drafted by Denver Broncos
For the fifth consecutive year, the Fighting Illini had at least one player selected in the NFL Draft. This year, it was wide receiver Pat bryant, who was chosen by the Denver Broncos in the third round as the 74th overall pick.
undrafted Free Agent Signings: Coleman to Seahawks,Edwards to Chargers
Following the draft,several Illinois players secured opportunities as undrafted free agents. Edge rusher Seth Coleman agreed to a deal with the Seattle Seahawks, while defensive lineman TeRah Edwards signed with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Seth Coleman: Seattle Seahawks
Coleman, a 6-foot-2, 232-pound edge rusher, served as a team captain for the Illini. as a senior, he recorded 53 tackles and three sacks. Over his six-year collegiate career, Coleman amassed 183 tackles and 15.5 sacks in 56 games. According to his NFL.com scouting report: “While his production won’t stand out, he uses active hands and long arms to make the most of his snaps.Coleman has a chance to become an NFL backup.”
TeRah Edwards: Los Angeles Chargers
edwards, standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 305 pounds, impressed scouts at his pro day. During his final season with the Illini, the defensive lineman tallied 38 tackles and 2.5 sacks, earning an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection. His agility and strength make him a promising prospect for the Chargers’ defensive line.
| Player | Position | NFL Team | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pat Bryant | Wide Receiver | Denver Broncos | Drafted (Round 3, pick 74) |
| Seth Coleman | Edge Rusher | Seattle Seahawks | Undrafted Free Agent |
| TeRah Edwards | Defensive Lineman | Los Angeles Chargers | Undrafted Free Agent |
Other Illini Hoping for NFL Opportunities
Several other Illinois players are hoping to catch on with NFL teams as undrafted free agents, including receiver Zakhari franklin, defensive tackle keith Randolph Jr., and linebacker Kalen Meed.
Zakhari Franklin
The 6-foot-1, 190-pound senior, Zakhari Franklin, had a strong 2024 season after transferring from UTSA. He caught 55 passes for 652 yards and four touchdowns for the Illini. Before transferring to Ole Miss and then Illinois, Franklin had a prolific career at UTSA, recording 262 catches, 3,348 yards, and 37 touchdowns.
Keith Randolph Jr.
Keith Randolph Jr., a 6-foot-4, 275-pound defensive tackle transfer from Florida State, started every game for the Illini. He finished the season with 3.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss, showcasing his disruptive ability on the defensive line.
Kalen Meed
Kalen Meed, a 6-foot-1, 230-pound linebacker, played in all 13 games and finished with 50 tackles. He saw increased playing time following an injury to Dylan Rosiek. Meed impressed scouts at his pro day, posting a 4.5-second 40-yard dash and a 37.5-inch vertical leap, numbers that ranked among the best for linebackers.
The Path to the NFL: Drafted vs. Undrafted
While being drafted provides immediate security and a higher salary, the path of an undrafted free agent can also lead to a successful NFL career. Undrafted players often face an uphill battle, needing to prove themselves in training camp and on special teams to earn a roster spot.
consider the case of James Harrison, an undrafted linebacker who went on to become a Super Bowl champion and NFL Defensive Player of the Year with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Harrison’s success demonstrates that determination and hard work can overcome the initial disadvantage of not being drafted.
some argue that the pressure on drafted players is higher, as teams have invested notable resources in them and expect immediate contributions. Undrafted players, on the other hand, can sometimes fly under the radar and surprise teams with their performance, leading to unexpected success.
FAQ: Illinois Football and the NFL Draft
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How many Illinois players were drafted in 2025? | One Illinois player, Pat Bryant, was drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. He was selected by the Denver Broncos in the third round. |
| Which Illinois players signed as undrafted free agents? | Seth Coleman (Seattle seahawks) and TeRah Edwards (Los Angeles Chargers) signed as undrafted free agents following the 2025 NFL Draft. |
| What are the chances of an undrafted free agent making an NFL roster? | The chances vary, but many undrafted free agents make NFL rosters each year. It requires strong performance in training camp and preseason games, often excelling on special teams. |
| How can undrafted free agents improve their chances of success? | Undrafted free agents can improve their chances by being well-prepared, demonstrating versatility, and showing a strong work ethic. Making an impact on special teams is also crucial. |
| What factors do NFL teams consider when signing undrafted free agents? | Teams consider factors such as a player’s potential, pro day performance, position need, coachability, and special teams ability when signing undrafted free agents. |
Is this the full text of the article?
Archyde Interview: NFL Draft Analyst, Sarah Chen, on Illini’s Pro Prospects
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Archyde.com News Editor
Introduction
Hello, Archyde readers! Today, we’re joined by Sarah Chen, a leading NFL Draft Analyst, to discuss the recent news of Illinois Fighting illini players entering the professional ranks. Sarah, thanks for being here.
It’s great to be here. Thanks for having me.
Pat Bryant, Broncos’ Choice
Archyde: Let’s start with the highlight: Wide receiver Pat Bryant being drafted by the Denver Broncos in the third round. What are your initial thoughts on this selection?
Sarah Chen: It’s a great pick for both Bryant and the Broncos. Bryant has excellent hands and the potential to develop into a reliable target. It’s a good fit, allowing Bryant to learn from an already talented Broncos wide receiver corps.
undrafted Free Agent Signings
Archyde: We also saw Seth Coleman and TeRah Edwards sign as undrafted free agents. What are the opportunities for players like these?
Sarah Chen: It’s a huge prospect. While it is a tough road, they can prove their worth in training camp and the preseason. For Coleman, the Seahawks need edge rushers, so he has a chance to compete and show that his long arms and active hands can translate to the next level. Edwards has a good shot with the chargers as well,and may also carve a niche on special teams.
The Undrafted Journey
Archyde: The article also touches on the path of undrafted players and how the success of James Harrison proves that drive can overcome the lack of initial draft selection. What do you think about the varying paths of drafted versus undrafted players?
Sarah Chen: The pressure on drafted players is definitely higher. Teams are usually expecting them to instantly make an impact.Often, undrafted players can surprise the NFL world when they outwork their drafted counterparts, as they play with a chip on their shoulder. They’re fighting for their careers from day one.
Othre Illini Prospects
Archyde: What about other players like Zakhari Franklin, Kalen Meed, and Keith Randolph Jr., who are still hoping for a spot? Can they make their mark in the NFL?
Sarah Chen: Absolutely.They all possess qualities that NFL teams seek. A player like Zakhari Franklin has shown the ability to catch the ball and produce, while Keitch Randolph Jr. and Kalen Meed can impress evaluators with their physicality and athleticism.Their pro day performances would have aided the interest of potential teams. Landing the right coach and system is key.
key Success Factors
Archyde: What are the most critical factors for these Fighting illini players to find success in the NFL?
Sarah Chen: Beyond pure talent, it boils down to preparation, versatility, and a relentless work ethic. Everyone at this level has talent. Those who can adapt and find a niche, especially on special teams, increase their chances considerably. Also, the support and the guidance from their agents is essential.
Closing Thoughts
Archyde: Sarah, thanks so much for your insights. Any final thoughts for our readers?
Sarah chen: I’m excited to see how these Illini players develop. The NFL is a demanding league, but with the right mentality, they can have accomplished careers. Let’s see how the training camps go to see if their work ethic helps them rise through the ranks!
Archyde: Thank you all for reading. Share your thoughts in the comments below,we want to know who you think will become a star.
