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Northern Star

Northern Illinois University’s student media since 1899

 

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The Student News Site of Northern Illinois University

Northern Star

The Student News Site of Northern Illinois University

Northern Star

A graphic shows former NIU football players James Ester and DaRon Gilbert, who recently signed futures contracts with the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions, respectively. Ester and Gilbert are two of three former Huskies under contract for the 2025 NFL season, along with Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward. (Edison Miller | Northern Star)

James Ester, DaRon Gilbert sign NFL futures contracts

By Skyler Kisellus, Senior Sports Reporter | January 21, 2025

DeKALB — After completing their first NFL season, two former NIU football teammates are extending their professional careers by signing futures contracts with their respective teams. Green Bay Packers defensive lineman James Ester and Detroit Lions...

Green Bay Packers defensive lineman James Ester (65) stands at the line of scrimmage during the Packers’ preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens on Aug. 24 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Ester is midway through his rookie season in the NFL after being signed by the Packers as a undrafted free agent in April. (Evan Siegle | Green Bay Packers)

James Ester learning lessons in first pro season

By Skyler Kisellus, Senior Sports Reporter | November 19, 2024

It was only a year ago when James Ester was regularly tearing through opposing offensive lines as the leading man on NIU’s defense. His veteran experience made him a respected voice in the Huskies’ locker room.  Now, Ester is back to being the...

Packers defense emerges and other top stories in week three of NFL

By Matt Boecker | September 23, 2019

DeKALB — This week the NFL was highlighted by a team continuing their dominance and an unexpected team emerging. The Baltimore Ravens get derailed by the ChiefsThrough two weeks, the Ravens averaged 542 total yards of offense and 41 points per game,...

Sports Faceoff: NFC Championship game

By Jimmy Johnson and Chris Dertz | January 20, 2011

Jimmy Johnson: Chris, I can't contain the excitement that is flying out of me about this game. I never thought in my lifetime that I'd get to see the Bears and Packers as the two remaining teams in the NFC. I'm guessing you share these sentiments as well?...

Feeding the fans: Eateries prepare for the NFC championship game

By Alex Fiore | January 20, 2011

With the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers meeting in the playoffs for the first time since 1941 on Sunday, people around DeKalb are getting prepared for the game. Restaurants and bars around DeKalb are preparing for a hectic couple of hours. "The staff...