Illinois announced the addition of transfer quarterback Katin Houser from East Carolina, giving coach Bret Bielema an immediate replacement for departed starter Luke Altmyer.
The move comes less than a week after Illinois defeated Tennessee 30-28 in the Music City Bowl. Altmyer, who transferred from Ole Miss three years ago, led the game-winning drive in his final collegiate appearance.
Houser threw 37 touchdowns across two seasons at East Carolina and totaled 43 touchdown passes for his career. He previously spent time at Michigan State before transferring to ECU.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported the signing represents a significant addition for the program.
“Houser led ECU to an 8-4 regular season record this year and an 8-5 overall record last year. He gives Bret Bielema’s team an experienced and productive quarterback. He has one year remaining.”
The quarterback will need to adapt quickly to Illinois’ offensive system. Unlike Altmyer, who had three seasons to develop within Bielema’s program, Houser gets just one year of eligibility.
East Carolina’s recent success mirrors Illinois’ trajectory under Bielema. The Pirates posted winning records in both of Houser’s seasons as starter.
Illinois just completed back-to-back bowl victories for the first time in program history. The Music City Bowl win capped an impressive turnaround under Bielema, who’s emphasized roster retention while strategically adding transfers.
Houser’s experience and proven production give Illinois stability at the sport’s most important position.
The quarterback competition will unfold when fall camp begins in August. Illinois opens the 2025 season looking to build on its recent bowl success with an experienced signal-caller who’s already proven he can win at the Power Four level.
