Braden Contreras brings size, special-teams value, and sneaky big-play upside for Illinois State
In the 2024 season, Braden Contreras appeared in all 14 games for Illinois State and posted 3 catches for 41 yards and a touchdown, while also handling punt returns, which shows he’s more than just a depth wideout[1][6]. At 6-foot-4 and around 200 pounds, he gives the Redbirds a long-target frame, and his route to snaps looks tied to reliable assignment football and special-teams versatility rather than gaudy volume[1][8]. He looks like a good fit if a team wants a durable, multi-use receiver who can chip in as a returner and make the occasional chunk play without needing the offense built around him[1][6].
