How Far Will Illinois Football Go to Land Their Top In-State Prospect?

Illinois Football is making a serious push to remain one of the nation’s top programs for the Class of 2026, currently holding strong at No. 10, according to the 247 Sports Recruiting Team Rankings. With a crucial April recruiting period approaching—bringing several official visits and increased communication among coaches and players—the Illini staff is starting to turn up the heat on prospecting for the future.

Notably, there’s been some interesting efforts to think outside the box and strengthen rapport with top in-state target Nasir Rankin.

Rankin—the No. 1 ranked player in the state of Illinois and a top-10 ATH in the country (No. 9) is a priority for the Fighting Illini in the Class of 2026. Playing under former Illinois Football standout Chris James at Morgan Park HS, the Chicago native has established himself as a nationally relevant and dynamic playmaker.

In 2024, Rankin posted eye-opening numbers vs some tough competition, racking up 40 receptions for 991 yards and 12 touchdowns. He additionally contributed on the ground with 110 rushing yards and a touchdown on 19 carries.

With assistants Justin Stepp and Aaron Henry leading the charge, as well as a very involved Bret Bielema, it’s clear that the Illini are in full-court press mode for their top in-state prospect. That said, Nassir has listed Illinois among his top 11 schools—signaling the Illini are very much in the hunt.

However, head coach Bret Bielema and his staff are now employing a unique strategy to strengthen the offer—getting an assist from Illinois Basketball head coach Brad Underwood.

After a long talk with @CoachUnderwood I am excited to say I have received an offer to play basketball for @IlliniMBB #ILL @Chris_CJ_6 @EMPEHIAthletics @_MP_Football @TheCoachReem @michaelsobrien @mikeclarkpreps @PrepHoopsIL @CoachTreal2 @ILHoopProspects pic.twitter.com/jIU0Q37tRz

— NASIR RANKIN (@The_Real_Nas1) March 27, 2025

The Underwood Assist – Nassir Rankin Now Holds Offers From Illinois Football and Basketball.

In an uncommon move, Rankin has now received a scholarship offer from Illinois Basketball coach Brad Underwood, as announced via his Twitter. This raises an intriguing possibility—could Rankin be a rare two-sport Division I athlete? History tells us that only a select few, like Donovan McNabb, Bo Jackson, and Deion Sanders, have successfully pulled off playing at an elite level in multiple sports. While this appears to be Rankin’s first dual-sport offer, it’s unlikely to be his last.

Regardless of where Rankin ultimately lands, his stock is rising fast. His highlight reel and statistical production justify the growing hype, and Illinois is doing everything it can to make sure he stays home.

Sep 20, 2024. Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. Illinois Fighting Illini wide receiver Pat Bryant. (13) runs onto the field with the team during warmups before a game. Nebraska Cornhuskers vs Illinois at Memorial Stadium. Credit: Dylan Widger. Imagn Images.

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