Pat Bryant, a wide receiver from the University of Illinois, is awaiting selection in the NFL Draft taking place this week. Projections generally place the Illini player in the later rounds.
Bryant, who measured 6-foot-2 and weighs 204 pounds at the NFL Combine, has moved on draft boards. He is currently listed as the No. 15 wide receiver and No. 131 overall player on ESPN's best available list. tw: https://t.co/9nUelTeWWk
Using the typical 32 selections per round, Bryant's current position suggests a potential pick near the end of the fourth round or early in the fifth round.
Evaluations from scouting services like The Athletic's annual NFL Draft guide highlight Bryant's physical attributes and effort. Notes describe him as a good-sized athlete with natural coordination and play strength.
Evaluations also mention areas for development, including marginal deep speed and needing to sharpen route breaks. However, scouts also noted his ability to get off the jam and consistently adjust to make tough catches.
Bryant's statistics from last season included 54 receptions for 984 yards and 10 touchdowns. Supporters point to these numbers as evidence of his talent despite perceived limitations like speed.
College coaches have spoken about Bryant's work ethic and leadership within the Illinois Fighting Illini program. Receivers coach Justin Stepp noted Bryant's dedication, describing him as a "pro even before this weekend" regarding his preparation habits.
Art Sitkowski, who coached Bryant, also praised his intelligence and care for teammates, stating these traits would translate well to a professional organization.
Bryant finished his Illinois career having played 46 games, accumulating 2,095 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns. He opted to skip the Citrus Bowl to focus on preparing for the draft process.
Selecting Bryant would mark the second consecutive year an Illinois wide receiver has been drafted into the NFL.
"It's pretty cool to watch a kid achieve his dreams," Stepp said. "Nobody deserves it more than Pat Bryant for what he's poured into this program."
