Two Illinois football players drafted in United Football League Draft

WCIA — Former Illinois wide receiver Isaiah Williams and offensive lineman Julian Pearl were selected in the United Football League Draft.

Pearl was taken sixth overall by the Michigan Panthers. In his senior season with the Illini, the Danville native was an All-Big Ten honorable mention, starting all 12 games at left tackle.

Williams was drafted by the Birmingham Stallions with the last pick in the 4th round. The Illini captain’s 82 receptions led the Big Ten, earning him All-Big Ten First Team honors.

Both players are currently on NFL training camp rosters, hoping to make regular season teams. Williams is with the Detroit Lions and Pearl is with the Baltimore Ravens.

Despite being drafted by a UFL team, they are not required to play. The teams just hold players’ rights if they ever decide to play in the UFL. Drafted players are allowed to sign a UFL contract with an “NFL out” clause, assuring they can play in the NFL if they make the cut. These rights go away if the team gives them up or if the player reports to his UFL’s team camp.

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