Illinois football lands three-star Ankeny TE Cade Newman over Iowa State

Illinois Football added another piece to its 2027 recruiting class on Saturday. Three-star Iowa tight end Cade Newman pledged his commitment to Illinois following his official visit to Champaign. The Ankeny Centennial (IA) product chose the Illini over in-state power Iowa State, as well as Wake Forest, New Mexico, and several others.

Though rankings aren’t as important in what is anticipated to be a much smaller recruiting class than in 2026, Newman’s commitment bumps the Illini up to 65th nationally, with 5 total commits thus far.

Notably, the 3-star has established himself as one of Iowa’s top prospects in the 2027 cycle. Newman is currently listed as the 14th-ranked player in the Hawkeye State. At 6-foot-5, 215 pounds, Newman brings the type of frame and athletic upside that Illinois is really looking to land for the tight end position.

Very grateful to announce my commitment to the University of Illinois! Couldn’t have done this without the support system behind me, my parents, friends, family, Ben Durbin, Coach Pezzetti, Coach Booth, and everyone else who has impacted my career! Super excited for this… pic.twitter.com/PqVFzvgDKq

— Cade Newman 3⭐️ (@CadeNewman17) June 7, 2026

What Cade Newnan’s Commitment Means for Illinois in 2027 and Beyond

Newman’s commitment adds talented, developmental depth for new tight ends coach Jared Elliott. The Tight-end position has traditionally been a strength in Bret Bielema-led offenses, and the Illini are certainly looking to build on the strong play from recent graduates, Tanner Arkin, Tip Reiman, and Carson Goda.

Illinois football currently has an intriguing tight end room with former running back Kaden Feagin and newcomers such as Will Vala and BJ Thurman. For Newman and any other additions to this room, it creates a real opportunity to earn reps early and develop into a bigger part of the offense over time.

For Illinois football, it is another early step in building out a more selective 2027 class.

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