CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Illinois football team will welcome back former standout Jeff Cumberland as its honorary captain for Saturday’s game against Rutgers. Cumberland, a versatile tight end who played for the Illini from 2006 to 2009, will return to Memorial Stadium for the 11 a.m. CT kickoff, which will be broadcast live on NBC.
Cumberland had an impactful career during his time in Champaign, totaling 1,001 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. He played both wide receiver and tight end for Illinois, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple roles. Among his most memorable moments was his career-high 131 receiving yards in Illinois’ 2007 regular season finale against Northwestern, a game that helped propel the team into the Rose Bowl.
During the 2007 season, Cumberland also started in three games as part of the team’s Rose Bowl run, including a key performance in the 2008 Rose Bowl Game against USC, where he caught three passes for 37 yards. He was also recognized for his leadership and commitment, receiving the Wright Commitment to Excellence Award as a senior in 2009.
In 2006, Cumberland made history as the first true freshman tight end in Illinois program history to start the season opener, further solidifying his place in Illinois football lore.
After his college career, Cumberland went on to play seven seasons in the NFL, including stints with the New York Jets (2010-2015) and the Los Angeles Chargers (2017). Over his NFL career, Cumberland accumulated 1,121 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, proving himself as a reliable target in the pros.