Undrafted Illinois Football Players Sign with Colts

Undrafted Illinois Football Players Sign with the Indianapolis Colts.

Illinois Football had a slew of draft picks in the 2023 NFL Draft. As with every program, however, Illinois had some undrafted free agents who were hoping to land on NFL Squads. On Monday evening, The Indianapolis Colts announced that they would be signing two former Illini. Defensive Tackle, Jamal Woods and Wide Receiver, Kody Case were the two players. Woods was a part of Lovie Smith’s first recruiting class, and Case was an addition via the transfer portal this past season.

Jamal Woods; Defensive Tackle

Woods was a part of the first Lovie Smith recruiting class. That class proved to be very successful with players like Vederian Lowe, Alex Palczewski, Nate Hobbs, Tony Adams and more. Woods struggled with injury throughout most of his Illini career, however proved to be very productive when on the field. Woods signed with the Colts after “an impressive rookie mini-camp” per a release by the franchise.

This is an awesome moment for one of the nicest personalities from Illinois Football. Woods was notably close with the late Bobby Roundtree. Hence, I am sure he has his close friend in mind as he signs his first NFL deal. The Colts are a rebuilding franchise after using their fourth overall pick of QB Anthony Richardson. Woods will attempt to continue to stay healthy as he tries to embed himself onto this roster.

Kody Case Wide Receiver

Kody Case was a transfer portal addition from South Dakota. Case played a special teams role and occasionally returned kicks for the Illini. There is not much familiarity amongst Illini nation and Case as he only played one year in a background role. However, it is nice to see an undrafted free agent who arrived here as a mid-major transfer make it to the NFL

Fans should remember that Justin Hardee was a scholarship player that really only played on special teams at Illinois. Hardee is now a very important piece on the New York Jets after a stint with the New Orleans Saints. I am sure that Illinois football will use these scenarios in their pitch to attest their development skills.