Miles Scott, a defensive back from the University of Illinois Fighting Illini, was selected by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round (No. 246 overall) of the 2026 NFL Draft, according to an April 25 announcement.
Scott is the third Illinois player chosen in this year’s draft. He follows EDGE Gabe Jacas, who was picked by the New England Patriots in the second round (No. 55), and offensive lineman J.C. Davis, selected by the New York Giants in the sixth round (No. 192).
A native of Dolton, Illinois, Scott spent five seasons with Illinois and transitioned from wide receiver to defensive back during his college career. He became a two-time team captain and earned All-Big Ten honors as a safety. Over his collegiate tenure, he played in 55 games and started on defense for most of his last three seasons, finishing with 182 tackles—131 solo—four tackles for loss, one sack, and seven interceptions.
Scott contributed to one of Illinois’ most successful football periods on record; during his time from 2021-25, the team won a total of 37 games—the highest five-year win total since the early twentieth century—as reported by the official website. The program also saw back-to-back nine-win seasons for the first time ever while Scott served as captain.
The Fighting Illini men’s football team includes student-athletes from various backgrounds across Illinois and other states and benefits from alumni support through its network according to its official website. The team competes against Big Ten Conference opponents as well as non-conference teams nationwide according to its official website, plays home games at Memorial Stadium in Champaign according to its official website, participates in community outreach efforts such as youth camps according to its official website, receives recognition through All-Big Ten selections and bowl game appearances according to its official website, and regularly competes within the Big Ten Conference according to its official website.
Scott is now part of a select group: he is only the fourth Illini drafted by Denver—and their first since Pat Bryant went there last year.
