No. 6: Ted Karras, OL
Why he’s important: Undisputed leader among the offensive line. Undisputed leader among the offense. And undisputed leader among the entire team. Karras brings an edge with him to the field, whether it’s on game day or during a Tuesday practice. The fifth-year senior and stalwart on the offensive line the last three seasons, Karras is out to prove last season’s devastating knee injury is behind him. Illinois hasn’t had an offensive lineman drafted since Hugh Thornton went to the Indianapolis Colts in 2013. Karras is the best shot to end that drought for the Illini when the 2016 draft rolls around.