Feb. 1, 2015
Four former Fighting Illini will have some new jewelry to show off next season. TE Michael Hoomanawanui and defensive back Tavon Wilson both suited up and helped the New England Patriots defeat the Seattle Seahawks, 28-24, in Super Bowl XLIX. Defensive end Michael Buchanan (injured reserve) and Justin Green (practice squad) also will earn Super Bowl rings for their contributions to the Patriots' season.
Michael Hoomanawanui, TE, New England Patriots - Hoomanawanui started and had one reception for four yards in the Super Bowl. As he did all season, "Uh Oh" played an even bigger role as a blocker, helping the Pats rack up 377 total yards. After catching just three passes for 44 yards in the regular season, Hoomanawanui had six receptions (on six targets) for 53 yards in the Patriots three-game playoff run to the championship.
Tavon Wilson, FS, New England Patriots (@TavonWilson27) - Wilson played in the Patriots' Super Bowl win bud did not record any statistics. Wilson has played in all 19 Patriots games (16 regular season and three playoff games), totaling 21 tackles and two passes defended on the season.
Michael Buchanan, DE, New England Patriots (@MikeBuke99) - Buchanan was on IR for the Super Bowl. He played in three games and made two tackles before getting injured and spending the final 11 weeks of the regular season and the playoffs on IR.
Justin Green, DB, New England Patriots (@jgreen_26) - Was added to Patriots practice Squad on Dec. 3.
