Former University of Louisiana at Lafayette defensive back Charles Tillman was selected by the Chicago Bears in the second round, 35th overall, in the 2003 NFL Draft.
Tillmans selection is the earliest that any Ragin Cajuns player has ever been taken in the NFL Draft. Offensive tackle Anthony Clement was selected in the second round, 36th overall in the 1998 NFL Draft. The selection is also the earliest of any player in the short two-year history of the Sun Belt Conference.
The Bears have now selected three Cajuns in the draft. Chicago selected defensive end Charles Bennett in the seventh round, 190th overall, in 1985 and drafted offensive tackle Louis Age in the eleventh round, 304th overall, in 1992. Both players went on to play one season in the NFL. Bennett played in three games with the Miami Dolphins in 1987, while Age saw action in six games with the Bears in 1992.
Former Cajuns kicker John Roveto played two seasons in Chicago from 1981-82, appearing in 18 games.
UL Lafayette has now had a player taken in two straight drafts, as defensive back Brad Franklin was selected by Carolina in the seventh round last season. Twelve Cajuns have had their names called in the NFL Draft since 1989, including four in the first three rounds.
Charles Tillman, Defensive Back, 6-2, 192
A natural cornerback that was converted to free safety eight games into the season because of an injury to the Cajuns starting free safety. Showed versatility and a desire to succeed in playing new position. Transition to free safety improved the Cajuns defense, helping the team win two of its last four. Excellent cover-man who routinely shut down the opponents top receiver just one player posted a 100-yard receiving game against UL Lafayette in 2002. Invited to 2003 Hula Bowl and Gridiron Classic. Intercepted Harvard quarterback Neil Rose in the second quarter of the Hula Bowl. Elected not to play in the Gridiron Classic.
Finished his career with 284 total tackles and 12 interceptions. His total tackles rank as the 5th most all-time by a Cajun and second all-time among defensive backs. Named to the 2001 and 2002 Sun Belt Conference First Team, a unanimous selection in 2002. Named First Team All-Louisiana in 2002.
Has the size, speed and strength to excel at the next levelVery good against both the run and the pass...Has great quickness and leaping ability...Possesses the athleticism, experience and technique to dominate.