JUST IN: Former Illini Standouts Shine in Week 7 NFL Action
Week 7 of the NFL season brought with it standout performances from several former Illinois Fighting Illini players, showcasing their talent on the big stage. As the league’s schedule reaches its midpoint, these athletes, hailing from Illinois or with ties to the area, made major contributions to their teams’ efforts, with some delivering game-changing plays that captured national attention.
Nate Hobbs – Las Vegas Raiders (Cornerback)
Nate Hobbs, the former Illini cornerback, made a triumphant return to the Raiders’ defense in Week 7. After missing time with a hand injury, Hobbs was back in the starting lineup and immediately made his presence felt. Facing a tough matchup against the Chicago Bears, Hobbs helped lock down a struggling Bears receiving corps, contributing several key pass breakups and solid open-field tackles. His ability to shadow receivers and provide support in run defense was a key factor in slowing down Chicago’s offense. Hobbs’ gritty, physical play was a reminder of the promise he showed during his time at Illinois, and his return couldn’t have come at a better time for a Raiders defense in need of a spark.
Nick Allegretti – Kansas City Chiefs (Offensive Guard)
Nick Allegretti, a mainstay on the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive line and former Illini standout, once again delivered a strong performance in Week 7. Lining up against the Los Angeles Chargers’ defensive front, Allegretti helped protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who threw for over 400 yards and four touchdowns in a dominant victory. The Chiefs’ offensive line allowed just one sack, thanks in large part to Allegretti’s ability to handle pressure and open running lanes for the Chiefs’ backfield. His consistency and leadership on the line have made him an essential piece of Kansas City’s offense, and he continues to quietly excel at one of the most crucial positions in the game.
Kerby Joseph – Detroit Lions (Safety)
Kerby Joseph, the Lions’ promising young safety and former Illini star, continued to show why he’s regarded as a rising star in Detroit’s secondary. In Week 7, Joseph was all over the field in the Lions’ primetime matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Despite the Lions’ loss, Joseph was a bright spot, leading the team with tackles and forcing a fumble that kept the game within reach early on. His aggressive style of play and ability to read the quarterback have become hallmarks of his game, and he’s quickly earning a reputation as one of the Lions’ top playmakers in the secondary.
As the NFL season progresses, these former Illini standouts are proving that their time in Champaign prepared them well for the bright lights of the NFL. Week 7 saw them deliver standout performances that contributed to their teams’ efforts, and fans of Illinois football have every reason to be proud of the impact their former players are making on Sundays.