The 21st-ranked Illinois Fighting Illini finished the regular season 9-3, with a 6-3 record in conference games, and fifth overall in the Big 10. The Fighting Illini passing attack performed much better this season compared to last season because Luke Altmyer improved as a quarterback. Altmyer threw for 2,543 passing yards with 21 touchdowns to five interceptions in 2024 compared to 1,883 passing yards, 13 passing touchdowns, and ten interceptions in 2023.
Since they finished with over six wins, the second time in Bret Bielema’s tenure as head coach, they have qualified for a bowl game. However, the date, the specific bowl game, and the opponent have yet to be decided. It’s unclear whether their star player on offense will participate since he revealed a massive decision regarding his future.
The Illinois Fighting Illini’s star WR revealed his plans for 2025

Star wide receiver Pat Bryant announced, via X, that he will forgo his final year of eligibility and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft.
“After much thought, prayer and discussions with my family, I am proud to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision marks the next step in pursuing my dream, and I am ready for the challenges ahead.
“I want to thank the University of Illinois for providing me with an incredible opportunity to grow as both a player and a person. To my coaches, thank you for your guidance and belief in me. To my teammates, you are my brothers, and I am forever grateful for the memories we’ve shared.
“To the fans, your support has meant the world to me. Running out onto Memorial Stadium with your cheers behind us will always be unforgettable.
“Though I’m excited for this future, I will always be proud to be an Illini.”
THANK YOU ILLINI NATION🔷🔶 pic.twitter.com/48kG9S86to
— 𝑷𝑨𝑻 𝑩𝑹𝒀𝑨𝑵𝑻 ¹³ (@duvalpat3) December 3, 2024
The former three-star recruit had a solid career in Champaign

Pat Bryant committed to the Illinois Fighting Illini as a three-star recruit for the 2021 season. Bryant would have a solid career in Champaign, registering 137 receptions for 2,095 yards and 19 touchdowns in 46 career games. His efforts earned him 11th in receptions, 9th in receiving yards, and T-2nd in touchdowns all-time on the Fighting Illini.
Bryant’s best season in Illinois came during the 2024 season, in which he notched career highs in receptions, yards, touchdowns, yards per catch, and yards per game. He recorded 54 receptions for 982 yards, ten touchdowns, 18.2 yards per catch, and 82.0 yards per game. Big Ten coaches named him to their All-Big Ten Second Team in 2024, his senior season.
Where does he rank among fellow wide receivers?

Pat Bryant’s position and prospect rankings for the 2025 NFL Draft vary among other sites. PFF ranks him as the 20th-best wide receiver and 154th overall among prospects, while ESPN ranks him 9th and 52nd overall. However, Bryant’s rankings could improve with an impressive Senior Bowl, Scouting Combine, and Pro Day performance.