Illinois Football: Illini look to Replace Isaiah Williams through the Portal

Illinois football offers Oregon State Transfer receiver Silas Bolden.

As Illinois football prepares for life without one of the most productive receivers in school history, head coach Bret Bielema and his offensive staff turn to the transfer portal. Illinois looked to the portal to bolster the trenches. Now, it looks to the portal for receiver help. Offensive coordinator Barry Lunney, Jr. might realize he’ll need more than one receiver to replace Williams.

Recruited and signed as a quarterback, Isaiah Williams quickly became one of the most productive receivers in school history. He ended his Illini career second all-time in receptions, fourth in yards, and fifth in receiving touchdowns.

Life without Williams begins with finding his replacement. The Illini have not been active in the portal searching for skill positions. They signed All-NJCAA receiver Mario Sanders, but there are no portal signees. That could change soon. Illinois offered Oregon State transfer slot receiver Silas Bolden:

University of Illinois Offered! pic.twitter.com/92V5Y6s9LY

— $ilas (@silasbolden_) January 3, 2024

Bolden led Oregon State in receptions, yards, and touchdowns last season. The Rancho Cucamonga native would bring speed and versatility to the Illinois receiver room. According to Bolden’s Twitter, USC, Utah, and Kansas State have offered in addition to Illinois. If Bolden signs elsewhere, Illinois does have options. Sophomore Kenari Wilcher and junior Hank Beatty saw significant time in the slot last season.

Bolden would add more speed and return ability on special teams also.