Reliable Illinois depth piece with special-teams grit
CJ Bufkin is a senior defensive back for Illinois in the 2024 season who has carved out value as a dependable, physical depth option and special-teams contributor, playing in all 13 games and finishing with 6 tackles[4][12]. He brings experience from Missouri Western, a 5-foot-11, 200-pound frame, and the kind of steady, low-drama profile coaches love for coverage support, tackling, and roster flexibility[2][4]. If your team needs a tough, mature DB who won’t wow you with flash but will show up, do the dirty work, and keep the engine humming, Bufkin fits that bill[4].
