The 2016 NFL Draft wrapped up in Chicago last weekend, and the Fighting Illini produced three draft picks (Jihad Ward, Ted Karras, and Clayton Fejedelem). That's not exactly overwhelming on the surface, but it was an admirable effort considering those were the program's first selections since 2013. Hooray!
But, naturally, it's now time to turn our attention towards the 2017 draft. Which players could hear their names called next year? Here are some of the more likely candidates.
Note: With good-great seasons, I suppose any of the upperclassmen could be drafted.