From college standout to NFL professional: the ascent of Cedric Tillman
In short: After a breakout season at Tennessee that saw him rank third in the SEC for touchdowns, Cedric Tillman entered the NFL draft as a rising star. His journey from a three-star high school prospect to a professional wide receiver highlights the intense, injury-prone reality of elite football.
Born on April 19, 2000, Cedric Tillman’s football trajectory was defined by a dramatic collegiate breakout. After spending his early years at the University of Tennessee as a backup, he emerged as a premier threat in 2021. During that standout season, he recorded 64 receptions for 1,081 yards and 12 touchdowns, a performance that ranked him third in the SEC for scoring. His ability to perform against top-tier competition was evident in games against Alabama and Georgia, where he amassed massive yardage totals. His impact was particularly notable during the Music City Bowl, where he secured three touchdowns. This offensive surge helped him establish himself as a vital component of the Volunteers' roster.
However, his momentum was frequently interrupted by physical setbacks. In 2022, an ankle injury sustained against Akron limited his availability, and his professional career has seen similar struggles with health. During his time with the Cleveland Browns, Tillman dealt with a concussion that landed him on injured reserve in late 2024, and a hamstring injury that sidelined him for several weeks during the 2025 season.
Tillman’s professional path has been one of movement. Selected 74th overall in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns, he transitioned from a key contributor to being waived by the Browns in August 2026. He subsequently joined the New Orleans Saints' practice squad in September 2026. He is following the career path of his father, Cedric Tillman, a former Denver Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars NFL player.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Cedric Tillman (American football, born 2000)
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