Illinois football lands JUCO WR Alex Capka-Jones

Illinois football lands JUCO WR Alex Capka-Jones.

The Illini had a plan for its 2023 recruiting class; get better and deeper at wide receiver. Mission accomplished. Illinois football signed four-star Malik Elzy, three-star Colling Dixon, and three-star tight end Nathan Guinn. In addition to those signees, the Illini signed Tanner Arkin via the transfer portal (Colorado State). Kenari Wilcher signed as an athlete but is transitioning to wide receiver. Head coach Bret Bielema mentioned during his media access on the 23rd that more scholarships were available in the 2023 cycle. One of those scholarships went to Alex Capka-Jones.

Capka-Jones is a 6-foot-4, 180-pound wide receiver prospect from Moorpark, California. He announced his commitment on Monday and has two years of eligibility left. Though he had no Power Five offers, Capka-Jones had several Division I offers, including Valparaiso University, Tennessee Tech, and Morehead State. Jones had an outstanding prep career, but his recruitment and exposure were negatively affected by COVID. Capka-Jones decided to go to Moorpark College, where he had 64 receptions for 900 yards in two years, earning offensive MVP last fall.

Capka-Jones adds to the talent depth at wide receiver.

The Illini were looking to add a JUCO wide receiver to the room for a few months. Two of their targets, Jayden Dixon-Veal and Jamai East, committed to other programs (Purdue and Oregon State). Capka-Jones came to work out during the Rising Illini Camp, turning it into an official visit and scholarship offer. He gives the Illini some experienced depth behind incumbents Isaiah Williams, Pat Bryant, and Casey Washington. With his size, there are going to be playmaking opportunities as well.

“Obviously, I’m a taller guy,” Capka-Jones said.  I go up and I like to go get the ball.   I primarily play outside receiver, but I can play some slot too.  They’re looking for a guy who can just go make plays.  That’s what I do.   love to go make plays.  They like that I got strong hands.  ’m just going to go I there and show them that I can do it day in and day out.”