Illini Football: Defensive Lineman Receives High Preseason Praise

A defensive lineman for the Illini football program is currently receiving some high preseason praise. With kickoff just around the corner, it’s that time of year again for many outlets to start releasing preseason rankings.

Recently, Big Game Boomer (@BigGameBoomer) jumped on board and released their rankings of what they believe to be the top 50 defensive ends in the nation entering the 2024 season. Ranking 40th on that list was fighting Illini defensive end Gabe Jacas. The freshman All-American received high praise from head coach Bret Bielema during spring camp. Bielema was impressed with the Junior edge rushers’ progression, acknowledging that he stood out during spring ball. Certainly, high praise for a position in which Bret states “On the outside, probably our most talented room.”

Top 50 Defensive Ends Entering The 2024 Season pic.twitter.com/1Js9SwIaFH

— Big Game Boomer (@BigGameBoomer) July 3, 2024

After a super exciting freshman season in 2022, Jacas took a bit of a step back statistically in 2023. Of course, despite certainly still having very solid numbers for a sophomore in the Big Ten. In 2023, Gabe recorded 22 solo tackles, 9 assisted tackles, 4 sacks, and a solo forced fumble for Aaron Henry’s defense. After a couple of years of development under Keith Randolph, Johnny Newton, Seth Coleman, etc., there will be a step forward for Jacas in 2023. Not to mention, this will be the second season under transitioned DC Aaron Henry.

Will Gabe be able to take on a larger role in 2023, and wreak havoc in the Big Ten? Big Game Boomer certainly believes he can.

Sep 8, 2023; Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

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