Pat Bryant: The Next Illini in the NFL

Pat Bryant is someone that I consider a close friend.  I have had the opportunity to work with Pat throughout his College career.  Pat is the first person on the football team that gave me the opportunity to work with him and for that, I will always be grateful.  Bryant was quick to respond to my interest in working with him and was extremely excited to host events for the community and for fans.  Pat has always had his mindset of leaving Champaign, IL better than when he came here.  He has done exactly that.  

Loyalty and Persistence

Since coming to Champaign, Pat has surpassed 2000 receiving yards (2095), and scored 19 Touchdowns, with 137 receptions over his 4 years at the University of Illinois.  He helped lead his teams to two bowl games during his 4 years at the University.  Pat also tied the record in 2024 for most Touchdowns in a season (10) for the University of Illinois. While Pat is a dynamic pass catcher he is also one of the elite blockers in the game at his position.  In early 2025, Pat will have the opportunity to showcase his measurables at the NFL Combine and the Illini Pro Day.  At 6-3, 200 lbs his frame is perfect for the next level.  

I was able to sit down with Pat at the end of the season before he left for training and one thing that he mentioned to me was that he doesn’t have to say much because the film does all the talking.  If you put on his tape you will quickly see a playmaker that goes 110% on every snap.  Any team would be lucky to draft a playmaker that does it all.  In May, 32 NFL teams will have the opportunity to draft someone special on and off the field.  Bryant is a playmaker with his routes, with his spectacular catches, and one of the top blockers in the game.

NFL Comparison: AJ Green

NFL Team Fits:

Dallas Cowboys

Indianapolis Colts

Miami Dolphins

Pittsburgh Steelers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Washington Commanders

Draft Projection:

3rd Round-5th Round- Bryant’s film, leadership, production, and measurables will grab the attention of NFL teams during the NFL Draft.  I expect a lot of teams to have an early interest in Bryant for his elite blocking which also comes with a high ceiling for his playmaking abilities.  

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