Illini now

Illinois Football Recruiting Buzz: Bret Bielema Pursuing Five-Star Recruit

Illinois commits keep shining on the field this fall, and the visitor list for the Ohio State game continues to grow
Pranav Hegde|
Sep 20, 2025; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback Luke Altmyer (9) leads his team onto the field prior to the game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
Sep 20, 2025; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini quarterback Luke Altmyer (9) leads his team onto the field prior to the game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images | Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

In this story:

Illinois Fighting Illini

As Illinois football turns the page to Week 5, the focus shifts back home to Champaign for FOX's "Big Noon Kickoff" against USC on Saturday (11 a.m. CT, FOX). After a humbling loss at Indiana, Bret Bielema’s Illini are aiming to rebound against the Trojans, who bring plenty of star power and a chance to spoil homecoming.

At the same time, the foundation for Illinois’ future is still being built on high school fields across the country. In this space, we’ll spotlight the next wave of Illini talent – from rising prep standouts to recruits making key visits that could shape the program’s trajectory. With Big Ten play in full swing and the spotlight on Champaign, the recruiting trail is buzzing. We’ll keep you locked in on all the names, stats and storylines you need to know.

Kameron McGee: 2028 defensive line target

Bielema knows the trenches are where games are truly won and lost, and he’s pushing hard to land one of the state’s premier talents. Kameron McGee already boasts offers from heavyweights like Ohio State, Oregon and Texas, meaning Illinois will have to win a tough battle for his commitment. Still, the fact that he sported Illini gloves in his most recent game is at least a hint that Champaign is very much on his mind.

Kenyon Alston: 2026 wide receiver commit

Kenyon Alston has been flat-out dominant this season, to the point that it feels like every week another highlight surfaces of him doing things most high schoolers simply don't. In his latest clip, he flashed his after-the-catch ability – a skill set the Illini could badly use this week against USC.

Almirian Thomas: 2026 defensive back commit

The Illini have plenty to look forward to in the coming years, and Almirian Thomas is a big reason why. Another standout from Florida, he has been absolutely lights-out in coverage this season while also showing the toughness to come downhill and make tackles.

Nick Hankins Jr.: 2026 defensive back commit

The top-ranked player in Illinois according to Rivals, Nick Hankins Jr. put on another show last weekend. Hankins ripped off a long touchdown run, weaving past defenders and flashing the kind of athleticism that separates him from the pack. Although he projects as a defensive back at the next level, his ability to make explosive plays on offense proves he’s a true all-around weapon.

Nasir Rankin: 2026 athlete commit

Another two-way standout, Rankin looks every bit like a star in the making. He has the skill to swing a game on either side of the ball – whether it’s hauling in tough catches in traffic or locking down an opponent’s top wideout. Add in the passion and edge he plays with, and it’s easy to see why he projects as a big-time contributor from the moment he steps on campus.

Jacob Alexander: 2026 edge commit

Edge commit Jacob Alexander has been on a tear this season, showing exactly why Illinois is excited about his future. He has proven he can both set the edge in the run game and create havoc in the backfield as a pass rusher. A well-rounded prospect with plenty of upside, Alexander is a key addition the Illini are fortunate to have locked in.

Parker Crim: 2026 defensive line commit

Blake Betton: 2027 linebacker target

Illinois continues to load up its visitor list for the showdown against Ohio State, a game that’s shaping up to be one of the biggest in Champaign in recent memory. Recruits from across the country are lining up to soak in the atmosphere, including 2026 defensive line commit Parker Crim and 2027 linebacker target Blake Betton.

Published
Pranav Hegde
PRANAV HEGDE

Primarily covers Illinois football, basketball and golf, with an emphasis on news, analysis and features. Hegde, an electrical engineering student at Illinois with an affinity for sports writing, has been writing for On SI since April 2025. He can be followed and reached on Instagram @pranavhegde__.

Home/Football