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Illinois Football: Illini prospects for the 2022 NFL Draft

By Rees Woodcock

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the NFL shield logo before the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the NFL shield logo before the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 27, 2021; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini offensive lineman Doug Kramer (65) lifts the Land of Lincoln trophy after defeating the Northwestern Wildcats at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2021; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini offensive lineman Doug Kramer (65) lifts the Land of Lincoln trophy after defeating the Northwestern Wildcats at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

Doug Kramer

Illinois’ offensive line has been together for years. One of the main staples in the offensive line is center, Doug Kramer. He has been there for the Illini through thick and thin and was a true legend for the program.

The run Kramer had with the Illini was impressive. He started a total of 36 games and finished his career in 2021 as an All-Big Ten second team member by the coaches. Kramer was also rated as the No. 26 center in the country by Pro Football Focus.

NFL.com doesn’t think too highly of Kramer. They only gave him a grade of 5.53 heading into the 2022 NFL Draft. Neither the NFL nor CBS has him getting picked by a team, but it wouldn’t shock me to see an organization scoop him up as a free agent.

Every team in the NFL needs depth on the offensive line, especially at center. Having someone like Kramer come in would be great for an organization. I think the first team that I see landing him would be the Los Angeles Chargers. They had a great signing in the offseason with Corey Linsley, but there isn’t any depth at center. Kramer could sit and develop behind Linsley.

I would also look at the Jacksonville Jaguars. They don’t have much set at the offensive line, so this would give Kramer some room to grow. The Cincinnati Bengals would also be a good option for Kramer. They signed former Illinois offensive lineman Teddy Karras, so learning behind a fellow Illini would be good.

Teams to watch

  • Los Angeles Chargers
  • Jacksonville Jaguars
  • Cincinnati Bengals
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