The NFL kicks off its regular-season Thursday night with the defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers. Former Illinois players Michael Hoomanawanui and Tavon Wilson will be in action for the Patriots.
Hoomanawanui and Wilson both played in Super Bowl XLIX. Hoomanawanui hauled in one reception for four yards, while Wilson didn't record any statistics.
Here's a full list of former Illinois players in the NFL:
- Jeff Allen (OT, Chiefs)
- Jon Asamoah (OL, Falcons)
- Alan Ball (DB, Bears)
- Arrelious Benn (WR, Jaguars)
- Jonathan Brown (LB, Cowboys)
- Michael Buchanan (DE, Bills)
- Jeff Cumberland (TE, Jets)
- Vontae Davis (CB, Colts)
- Michael Hoomanawanui (TE, Patriots)
- Corey Liuget (DE, Chargers)
- Whitney Mercilus (DE, Texans)
- Akeem Spence (DT, Buccanneers)
- Hugh Thornton (OG, Colts)
- Tavon Wilson (FS, Patriots)
Here's the full schedule with games featuring Illini players in bold:
| Matchup | TV | Time | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots | NBC | 7:30 p. |