Three U of I Football Players to Participate in NFL Combine

Quarterback, offensive lineman, and outside linebacker from Illinois Fighting Illini to showcase skills for NFL scouts

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Three former University of Illinois football players - quarterback Luke Altmyer, offensive lineman J.C. Davis, and outside linebacker Gabe Jacas - will participate in the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine this week in Indianapolis. The players will work out in front of scouts and representatives from all 32 NFL teams as they look to impress and improve their draft stock ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft.

Why it matters

The NFL Combine is a crucial event for college football players looking to make the leap to the professional ranks. Strong performances can significantly boost a player's draft position and earning potential. For the University of Illinois program, sending multiple players to the Combine is a testament to the talent and development of their football team under head coach Bret Bielema.

The details

The three Illini players participating in the 2026 NFL Combine are quarterback Luke Altmyer, offensive lineman J.C. Davis, and outside linebacker Gabe Jacas. Altmyer and Davis will have media availabilities, while Jacas, Altmyer, and Davis will all take part in on-field workouts and drills in front of NFL scouts and executives.

  • The NFL Combine runs from February 26 to March 1, 2026 in Indianapolis.
  • Gabe Jacas will work out on Thursday, February 26 at 1 p.m. CT.
  • Luke Altmyer will have a media session on Friday, February 27 at 9:30 a.m. CT and a workout on Saturday, February 28 at 12 p.m. CT.
  • J.C. Davis will have a media session on Saturday, February 28 at 10:30 a.m. CT.

The players

Luke Altmyer

A quarterback for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini football team.

J.C. Davis

An offensive lineman for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini football team.

Gabe Jacas

An outside linebacker for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini football team.

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What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in late April, where the three Illini players will hope to hear their names called and be selected by an NFL team.

The takeaway

The University of Illinois football program continues to develop top talent that is attracting the attention of NFL scouts. The strong representation of Illini players at the NFL Combine is a testament to the coaching staff's ability to prepare student-athletes for the professional level.