CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Illinois football made significant roster upgrades through the transfer portal in early January, welcoming 14 new players from programs across the country as the Illini continue to reshape their roster for the upcoming season.
The additions span nearly every position group, with reinforcements on both sides of the ball and in special teams. Illinois addressed depth and experience along the offensive and defensive lines, added multiple playmakers at wide receiver, and secured help in the secondary and linebacker corps.
Among the defensive additions is defensive lineman Connor Sullivan from Washington State, who committed on Jan. 11, along with linebacker Robert Edmonson from Colorado State and defensive back Deuce Fillmore from Georgia State. The Illini also brought in defensive lineman Carter Janki from Penn and defensive back Lavon Williams from East Texas A&M to further strengthen the front seven and secondary.
On offense, Illinois added five wide receivers, including Alex Perry from FIU, Ty Robinson from Ball State, and Jayshon Platt from FAU, providing depth and competition at the position. Quarterback Katin Houser transferred from East Carolina on Jan. 4, giving the Illini another experienced option under center.
The offensive line received a boost with the additions of Christian Martin from Colorado State and Jake Renfro from Wisconsin, while linebacker Will Holmes arrived from Utah State to add versatility on defense. Long snapper Zach Haber transferred from Arkansas to solidify special teams, and athlete Maurice Smith joined the program from Chowan.