With just two commitments secured so far, Illinois head coach Bret Bielema has plenty of work ahead in the Class of 2027. Beat writer Scott Richey highlights 10 promising prospects the Illini could still add to their recruiting haul—starting with some speed from the Sunshine State.
Trezavant Boyd | Miami Central (Fla.) | 5-10, 150 | Cornerback
There's a proud tradition of undersized Florida cornerbacks thriving in Champaign—Devon Witherspoon being the gold standard. Boyd fits that mold perfectly, and his growing offer list reflects it. Despite his frame, the south Florida native has drawn multiple power-conference offers, with Florida State and UCF emerging as serious contenders in his recruitment.
Darryl Flemister | Martin Luther King Jr. (Mich.) | 6-0, 160 | Athlete
Versatility defines Flemister's game. He's lined up at quarterback and wide receiver over the past two seasons, but his future likely lies in the secondary at the next level. The three-star athlete took an unofficial visit to Illinois in early April and is scheduled for an official visit in June, with a commitment date set for July 4.
Reed Gerken | Perrysburg (Ohio) | 6-5, 290 | Offensive tackle
Illinois made the top four for Gerken alongside Virginia Tech, Wisconsin, and Kentucky. He plans to commit on June 22 after official visits to all four schools—including a trip to Champaign the weekend of June 12. Gerken helped lead Perrysburg to a 9-3 record last fall.
Anthony James | La Marque (Texas) | 6-2, 200 | Linebacker
Outside linebackers coach Archie McDaniel has built a pipeline from Texas to Champaign, and James could be the next addition. The La Marque standout was a tackling machine last season, posting 134 stops and 24 tackles for loss for the Cougars.
Brody Knowles | Southlake Carroll (Texas) | 6-5, 190 | Wide receiver
Knowles has been a big-play machine in one of Texas's most storied high school programs. After a breakout sophomore season with 37 catches for 539 yards and eight touchdowns, he elevated his game as a junior with 36 receptions for 816 yards and seven scores—proving he's a true deep threat.
Konkey | Position TBD
Recruitment didn't take off until April 30 when Duke extended the first offer, but in less than two weeks, Konkey has already collected a baker's dozen scholarship offers. As the current top sprinter in Illinois, his track speed translates directly to the football field—where he caught 41 passes for 739 yards and nine touchdowns last fall.
Lewis | Running Back
Illinois jumped into the mix for the state's No. 3 running back in February and hosted him for an official visit last month. Reigning College Football Playoff champion Indiana is also in the picture. Lewis was a workhorse for the Raiders last season, carrying 227 times for 1,784 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Brayden Parks | Broth
More details to come on this prospect as his recruitment develops.