FB Recruiting
NEWS: Illinois Football Lands top QB Michael Clayton II
The Illini landed their first commitment in the class of 2026

Illinois football has landed its first commitment in the class of 2026. Quarterback Michael Clayton II announced his verbal commitment to the Illini over offers from Louisville, Arkansas, Ole Miss, and others. Clayton II is a 6 foot 3.5 inch QB with a smooth delivery and with no-doubt power-five traits. However, Barry Lunney Jr. and Art Sitkowski have done an outstanding job of pushing the envelope for Clayton. The Illini have hosted the talented Floridian quarterback on campus for multiple visits. These recruiting efforts have become a staple for Bret Bielema and their coaching staff as they continue to win power-five recruitments more frequently.
The Illini QB talent upgrade
The Illinois football QB room has certainly upgraded in terms of talent these past few years. With Luke Altmyer currently playing well, there is an extremely good sell and template for recruits to follow. Behind Altmyer, however, are some intriguing prospects. It starts with Redshirt-Sophomore Donovan Leary, followed by true freshman Trey Petty. Also, the Illini have St Louis QB Carson Boyd, currently committed to the class of 2025. Though there can only be one QB playing, having multiple QBs in the room breeds competition. Also, injuries are sure to happen and you need multiple talented QBs ready to go.
For example, current backup Donovan Leary stepped in when Altmyer was sidelined for a play and nailed a two-point conversion pass in the win over Michigan. With Clayton’s commitment, the Illini QB room continues its upward rise.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Thank you for reading Armchair Illini!
We at Armchair Illini are proudly sponsored by Hamilton Walker’s Steak, Seafood, and Spirits. Located in the heart of downtown Champaign, there is no better restaurant for Illini fans to visit. Order online here or call (217) 350-0363 to make a reservation.
For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at alexkyi13@gmail.com. Please use our Seatgeek code for $20 off your purchase on Seatgeek.com: ARMCHAIRILLINOIS. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing Illinois media outlets around!
-
Football3 days ago
Illinois WR Hank Beatty Reaches National Record
-
Football6 days ago
Watch: Luke Altmyer catches first TD pass on trick play vs USC
-
Football4 days ago
Illinois Football injury report heading into Cannon week vs Purdue
-
Basketball4 days ago
Former Illinois basketball star Trent Frazier hits milestone overseas
-
Basketball2 days ago
Former Illini Ayo Dosunmu cleared for 2025 NBA training camp
-
Football4 days ago
WATCH: David Olano saves the day for the Illini with game-winner
-
Basketball15 hours ago
Former Illini Malcolm Hill signs Exhibit-10 deal with Philadelphia 76ers
-
Football3 days ago
How to Watch Illinois Football vs Purdue Boilermakers