Illinois has continued its roll on the recruiting trail.
That’s because four-star linebacker Cam Thomas announced that he is joining the 2026 recruiting class. Thomas selected the Illini over a top six that included West Virginia, Indiana, Michigan, Oregon and Kentucky. Thomas is the third four-star prospect to join the class that currently sits inside the top-15 of the Rivals Team Recruiting Rankings.
IN HIS WORDS...
ON WHY ILLINOIS IS THE SCHOOL FOR HIM:
“It’s been a long recruiting process for me so the things that I valued in the end Illinois checked all the boxes for me and my family. It just felt right. Things I highly value are relationships, scheme fit, development and facilities. Illinois checks all those boxes along with the opportunity for me to come in and compete early. Those are big wins for me.”
ON HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH COACH BRET BIELEMA:
“Coach Bielema is great. I’ve had the opportunity to sit with him every visit I’ve taken to Illini. He made it clear I was a priority recruit for him and his staff because my versatile skillset reminds him of great players he has coached before in college & NFL. He brings stability and leadership to the Illinois program. Another box checked for me.”
ON THE EXCITEMENT AND MOMENTUM IN THE PROGRAM:
“Yeah, we have an awesome class right now and it’s still building. I can’t wait to announce my commitment to help recruit. I keep hearing this will be the highest rated class in Illini history. It’s great to be a part of that.”
ON WHAT HE'S LOOKING FORWARD TO MOST ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
“The FamILLY culture there is real! The program is headed in the right direction. When I leave Illinois and my career is over I want to say I was part of the change that made Illinois a B1G power. Legacy!”
