After the 2024 season, Illinois linebacker Gabe Jacas was eligible to enter the NFL Draft, and he had the talent to do so. However, the veteran decided to return for a fourth (and likely final) season with the Fighting Illini.
During the start of fall training camp, Jacas shared exactly why he decided to stick around in Champaign for another year.
"I couldn't leave these guys, we built our foundation here," Jacas said. "These guys are my family, and they mean everything to me."
Jacas went on to talk about how special it has been to see his teammates grow and develop over the last few years, and grow right alongside them.