Illinois junior RB lands an offer

Rockford (Ill.) junior running back prospect Deon Williams Jr. (6-foot-0, 190 pounds) is one of the top returning running backs for the 2005 season from the Land of Lincoln. Williams Jr. has also landed his first scholarship offer from the University of Illinois this winter.

"I've received a scholarship offer from the University of Illinois," Williams Jr. said. "The Illinois coaches requested tape from my head coach (Mel Gilifillan) a few weeks ago, then the Illinois coaches called him and told him that the Illinois coaches were impressed and that they were offering me an early scholarship."

Williams Jr., who has been keeping busy on the hardwood this winter for Guilford High School, is excited to land his first offer from the Illini.

"It's exciting to know that a school like Illinois is interested enough to offer me an early scholarship. I don't know a lot about the program at this point, but I'm planning to check out the Illinois Junior Day this Saturday. I'm looking forward to seeing the campus in person as well as getting a chance to meet with the coaches."

Williams Jr., who gained 1,020 yards and scored 11 touchdowns in just 9 games in 2004 is also planning to take in a few additional college junior days.

"I'm scheduled to attend a junior day at Purdue on February 26th. I've been getting steady mail and recruiting interest from Illinois, Purdue, Michigan State, Colorado and Northern Illinois."

"At this point I have no real favorites. I just want to check out a few schools this winter and then I'll get a better idea about the campuses and the coaches."