Will Cook County News

By Claude Martinez.

Green Bay, WI – On April 26, Jalan Gaines, a Defensive End (DE) formerly from Oak Lawn Community High School (OLCHS), signed with the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent.

During the 2018–2019 season at the Senior Varsity level at OLCHS, Gaines participated in 3 games, according to MaxPreps.

In that time, Gaines recorded 10 solo tackles, averaging approximately 3.3 total tackles per game, along with 3 tackles for loss.

After graduating OLCHS, Gaines attended the University of Dubuque (UD), an NCAA Division III school.

In the 2021 season, as a freshman on defense, Gaines appeared in 10 games.

He recorded 14 solo tackles and 7 assisted tackles, totaling 21 tackles overall. He also registered 6 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, and 9 quarterback hurries, according to UD.

Soon after UD, he transferred to Illinois State University, an NCAA Division I school.

Over the course of three seasons, from 2022 to 2024, Gaines totaled 112 tackles, including 73 solo and 39 assisted. He recorded 10.5 sacks, forced 2 fumbles, and broke up 5 passes, according to ESPN.

While he did not register any interceptions, fumble recoveries, or touchdowns, his consistent presence in the backfield and ability to pressure the quarterback made him a key contributor on defense throughout his career.

This continued success led him to being signed by the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent on April 26.

Before he leaves Illinois State University, he is set to earn his degree in Communication and Media Studies.

The NFL preseason training camps begin in mid-July.

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