Explosive year sends Illinois defensive tackle to the Los Angeles Chargers

The 2025 NFL Draft is over, but that just means there are going to be more Illinois football players signed as undrafted free agents.

Over the years, the Illini have cleaned up when it comes to players signing with NFL teams despite not being drafted. You can make a name for yourself despite not hearing your name get called.

Tony Adams and Jake Hansen have both had really good careers as undrafted free agents. Milo Eifler fits that mold as well. After the draft concluded on Saturday, the Illinois football social media account posted that the next undrafted free agent to sign is TeRah Edwards. He is heading to the Los Angeles Chargers.

Coming out of Groveport Madison High School in Ohio, Edwards was a three-star recruit. He signed on with Northwestern for the first couple of seasons before eventually entering the transfer portal and picking the Illini.

Edwards had to wait behind some great defensive linemen at Illinois. Even though he had to wait his turn, he eventually got a chance to start in 2024.

Illinois’ offensive line played well with Edwards leading the way. He amassed 38 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 1.0 forced fumbles last season. This was by far Edwards’ best season in the college ranks.

Los Angeles Chargers are building depth on the defensive line with the addition of TeRah Edwards

This past season, the Chargers had a good defense. They combined for 46 sacks, which ranked No. 6 in the NFL. Edwards will now compete for a roster spot on that defensive line.

The Chargers play a nickel defense, so the opportunities might be slim for Edwards. Ourlads.com has Teari Tart as the projected starter right now and Jamaree Caldwell, a draft pick, as the primary backup.

Along the same defensive line, Otito Ogbonnia is a projected starter with Naquan Jones and Scott Matlock backing him up.

Edwards is going to have to impress some coaches if he wants to make the Los Angeles roster. At least he has a foot in the door. That is step one.