Illini in the NFL: Jacas picks off Aaron Rodgers

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 20: Gabe Jacas #50 of the New England Patriots runs onto the field prior to the the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on September 20, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) | Getty Images It’s only Week T

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What is the story about?

It’s only Week Two, but several Illinois alums are making names for themselves this season in the NFL.

Gabe Jacas, Patriots: The former Illinois edge rusher had the biggest Illini moment of the NFL weekend, recording the first interception of his football career in New England’s 20-3 win over Pittsburgh.

Jacas picked off Aaron Rodgers late in the fourth quarter after a pass intended for Germie Bernard was tipped, ending a Steelers scoring threat inside the Patriots’ 20-yard line. He returned the interception

11 yards.

Jacas also recorded three tackles and a quarterback hit while playing 36 defensive snaps. Through two NFL games, the rookie has already recorded a sack and an interception.

Chase Brown, Bengals: Brown continued to serve as Cincinnati’s primary ball carrier, rushing 20 times for 80 yards in a 20-6 win over Houston.

Isaiah Williams, Jets: Williams contributed a 14-yard rushing attempt in New York’s 20-17 overtime loss to Green Bay.