Illinois Fighting Illini alumni participate in NFL preseason Week 1 matchups
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 1:31 AM
Last updated Aug 14, 2026
Week 1 of the NFL preseason features 36 former Illinois Fighting Illini players. Key matchups take place on August 13 and 14, including the Green Bay Packers at Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Miami Dolphins at Washington Commanders. Noteworthy players include Josh Gesky with the Packers and Luke Altmyer competing for a spot with the Lions. Several other Illini alumni are on the rosters of various teams, aiming to secure their positions for the upcoming season.
- •Packers' Josh Gesky is set to play as third-string right guard.
- •Lions' Luke Altmyer has a chance to earn a backup quarterback role.
- •Altmyer faces competition with Teddy Bridgewater's retirement.
- •Fighting Illini alumni appear across multiple matchups this preseason.
- •Several Illinois graduates hold starting positions, influencing their teams' lineups.
- 1:31 AMYahoo Sports — How to Watch Illinois Fighting Illini Alumni in NFL Preseason Week 1
"Here's everything you need to know before the former Illinois Fighting Illini take the field in the first week of the NFL preseason:
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