Jacob Alexander, a standout edge rusher from Frankfort, Illinois, just made a big decision. He’s committed to play football at Illinois after checking out the campus during junior day this past weekend.
Standing tall at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 240 pounds, Alexander had some impressive options. Schools like Michigan, Indiana, Kansas State, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Louisville were all interested. But he chose to join head coach Bret Bielema and his team.
So why Illinois? Alexander explained, “Illinois was just the right place for me defensively scheme wise. I fit in. They play with outside linebackers who can cover and rush.” He also felt a strong connection with the staff, saying, “Everyone on the staff are just people I trust my future with.”
His future looks pretty bright in Champaign.
Alexander is now the sixth commitment for Illinois in the 2026 recruiting class. This group is already ranked No. 25 nationally by On3 Industry, which is quite an achievement.
Illinois is on a roll, coming off a 10-win season that ended with a Citrus Bowl victory over South Carolina. Alexander is excited about where the team is headed. “They improve heavily year by year because of everyone on the team wants to grind and win,” he said. “The coaches are elite. They know how to coach to win and be successful.”
And it’s not just the football program that caught his eye. Alexander also likes the vibe in Champaign. “The area for sure Champaign Urbana, the community is great, the college town, the people in it.”
As Alexander looks forward to his time at Illinois, fans are eager to see how his talent will contribute to the team’s success. Will he become a key player in their continued rise? Only time will tell.
