Seth Coleman signs with Seattle Seahawks as undrafted free agent

The linebacker is the second Illini to ink a UDFA deal this year

By Ben Somerville, Senior Sports Reporter • April 26, 2025

Linebacker Seth Coleman runs out from the tunnel before a game against Purdue on Oct. 12, 2024.

Former Illinois linebacker Seth Coleman signed as an undrafted free agent with the Seattle Seahawks Saturday evening.

The linebacker went undrafted, but evidently impressed the Seahawks enough to sign him. Coleman had three sacks and 53 tackles last season. His best game was against Michigan State, when he earned 1.5 sacks and 1.5 tackles for loss.

Coleman is a longtime Illini, playing all five years of college football with the team. He racked up 15.5 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss during his collegiate career. The linebacker was a solid defender throughout his time in orange and blue.

The Seahawks lack pass-rushing depth, which means Coleman can earn real playing time this season. His athleticism makes him a serious contender to stay on the roster.

Coleman is the second Illinois player to ink a UDFA deal this year. Defensive tackle TeRah Edwards signed with the Los Angeles Chargers just hours before Coleman formalized his deal.

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Several more Illini are expected to sign UDFA deals in the coming days, including wide receiver Zakhari Franklin, defensive tackle Dennis Briggs Jr. and linebacker Ryan Meed.

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About the Contributors

Ben Somerville, Senior Sports Reporter

Hello, I’m Ben! I am a sophomore and a Senior Sports Reporter. I’m majoring in journalism and minoring in advertising and recreation, sport and tourism. I started at The Daily Illini in the spring of 2024 as a Sports writer. I covered women’s golf in the fall of 2024 and women’s basketball this spring. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching sports and playing golf. Feel free to reach out to my email below with any questions or comments.

Matt Stepp, Visual Director

Hey there! I’m Matt, and I’m a sophomore majoring in graphic design with a minor in media. I joined The Daily Illini in Fall 2023 as a staff photographer, and now I am continuing my role as the Visual Director. I’ve always had a passion for photography — you’ll probably spot me around campus capturing sports, other events or anything that catches my eye. When I’m not behind the camera, I’m likely poolside working as a lifeguard at the ARC or CRCE.