Rochester Grad Hank Beatty Draws NFL Draft Buzz

Former Illini receiver and punt returner looks to make the leap to the pros.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:04am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and orange, conveying the dynamic energy and multi-faceted nature of Beatty's game.Beatty's versatility and playmaking ability have made him an intriguing NFL draft prospect, as scouts analyze his potential to translate his college success to the professional level.Today in Pittsburgh

Hank Beatty, a standout wide receiver and punt returner for the University of Illinois, is generating buzz as an NFL draft prospect ahead of the 2026 draft. The Rochester High School graduate had a breakout senior season, leading the Illini in receptions, receiving yards, and becoming the first Big Ten player since 2003 to record a passing TD, rushing TD, receiving TD, and punt return TD in the same season.

Why it matters

Beatty's versatility and production at the college level have scouts intrigued about his potential to make an impact at the next level. As an undrafted free agent, he would still have an opportunity to earn a spot on an NFL roster, following in the footsteps of former Illini receiver Malik Turner.

The details

Beatty impressed at Illinois' pro day, running a 40-yard dash in the 4.50s. He led the Illini with 70 catches for 864 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2025, including three 100-yard receiving games. Beatty also broke a 102-year-old school record for most punt return yards in a game. Despite increased attention from opponents, he continued to make plays and was named to the All-Big Ten Third Team by coaches and media, as well as the Associated Press All-Big Ten Second Team as an all-purpose player.

  • Beatty participated in the Hula Bowl on January 10.
  • Beatty took part in Illinois' pro day on March 12.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.

The players

Hank Beatty

A wide receiver and punt returner who starred for the University of Illinois, Beatty is a late-round NFL draft prospect following a breakout senior season.

Malik Turner

A former wide receiver for the University of Illinois who went undrafted in 2018 but still earned an opportunity to play in the NFL.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of people were telling me I had a pretty solid pro day. Whatever they say, whether it's good or bad, it's kind of one ear out the other and then just keep working is really how I handle it.”

— Hank Beatty, University of Illinois Wide Receiver

“I feel like I just make things happen when I have the ball in my hands.”

— Hank Beatty, University of Illinois Wide Receiver

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, where Beatty will look to hear his name called and earn a spot on an NFL roster.

The takeaway

Beatty's versatility, production, and strong pro day performance have positioned him as an intriguing late-round NFL draft prospect. Even if he goes undrafted, he has shown the ability to make an impact at the college level and will look to prove himself at the next stage.