Former Illini set for NFL preseason debuts

CHAMPAIGN, IL - NOVEMBER 01: Illinois Fighting Illini OL J.C. Davis (74) during a college football game between the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and Illinois Fighting Illini on November 1, 2025 at Gies Memorial Stadium in Champaign, IL (Photo by James Black/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

It’s the start of the NFL preseason, which means some familiar faces will be making their debuts this week.

The Illini saw three players get drafted in 2026, along with nine others getting scooped up after the fact. Both Gabe Jacas and JC Davis are shoo-ins to make their respective 53-man rosters. However, even big names like Miles Scott and Luke Altmyer will be fighting to prove themselves during training camp.

Before the full preseason slate kicks off, let’s take a look at where some former Illini rookies will be playing this August.

After being the last second-round pick to sign their contract, Jacas and the New England Patriots finally inked a deal. Despite dealing with a recurring knee injury, Jacas has stated during camp that he feels 100%. So expect the former Illini star to be lining it up this Thursday against the Colts.

Luke Altmyer will also have his chance to shine on Thursday. Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell said he expects Altmyer to get a lot of snaps against the Bengals.

After a stellar senior season, Altmyer went undrafted this April. It was a surprise to many, but now Luke’s opportunity is here, as he will be in a battle to make the regular season roster.

Staying in the NFC, JC Davis will make his debut for the Giants on Saturday.

The offensive lineman went in the sixth round of the draft and is currently second on the left tackle depth chart. Backing up one of the best tackles in the league, Andrew Thomas.

It’s a good landing spot for Davis – who will have an excellent chance of not only making the roster but receiving serious playing time this year.

Heading back to the AFC, Miles Scott will also make his debut for the Broncos.

He was the final Illini selected in the 2026 draft, going in the seventh round.

Scott is currently listed as the third-string free safety for Denver. A strong pre-season campaign will be vital for Scott, as he fights to stay on the 53-man roster.

Besides the aforementioned players, more Illini rookies will be beginning their battle to make the final roster this week.

Familiar names include Hank Beatty, Josh Gesky, Josh Kreutz, Dylan Rosiek and Tanner Arkin.

All will have an outside chance of making their teams’ 53-man rosters, but the pre-season is the perfect time to show what they are about.

Indexed and credited by AIPROPX. Originating outlet: Yahoo Sports. Open at source →