Zakhari Franklin signs with Las Vegas Raiders

The former Illinois wide receiver inked an undrafted free agent deal with the Raiders

By Ben Somerville, Senior Sports Reporter • April 27, 2025

Illinois wide receiver Zakhari Franklin and teammates huddle during a game against Purdue, Oct. 12, 2024.

Former Illinois wide receiver Zakhari Franklin is heading to Sin City after signing with the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.

Franklin joins a Raiders team lacking depth in the receiver room. Outside of Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker, Las Vegas doesn’t have many proven options. Franklin could very well earn a roster spot and even playing time next season.

With the Illini, Franklin put up solid numbers. He had over 650 receiving yards and four touchdowns. His most memorable game came against Kansas, when he had 99 yards and an outstanding one-handed catch.

The Texas native started his college career with UTSA, where he compiled over 3,300 yards and 37 touchdowns. He transferred to Ole Miss and played four games before redshirting the season.

Illinois has now seen three players sign as undrafted free agents this season. Franklin joins defensive lineman TeRah Edwards and linebacker Seth Coleman as Illini to ink UDFA contracts.

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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.