Illinois Football News: Defensive Lineman Angelo McCollum Hits Transfer Portal

Yet another Illinois football defensive lineman has decided to part ways with the program, following their Music Bowl victory over Tennessee. As first reported by Jeremy Werner of 247Sports (Illini Inquirer), Junior defensive lineman Angelo McCullom has requested to enter the transfer portal.

Over the course of two seasons in Champaign, the talented 6’2″, 300-pound defensive tackle notched 21 tackles (8 solo) and two sacks. In 2025, particularly, he had a bit of a breakout season, with 7 solo tackles and 2 sacks. Angelo appeared to be on track for a significant role for Aaron Henry’s defense in 2026.

That said, this one is a bit of a head scratcher.

Undoubtedly, this is a big loss for Illinois. Terrance Jamison’s unit has been hit hard, as McCullom’s departure adds to a growing list of defensive linemen no longer in the program. Starters Tomiwa Durojaiye and Curt Neal have also entered the portal, along with rotational pieces Eli Coenen and Jeremiah Warren. Meanwhile, veterans James Thompson Jr. and Gentle Hunt are looking ahead to the next step in their careers as they plan to graduate in the spring.

Naturally, rebuilding the defensive line will become priority #1, now that Illinois football has locked in a starting quarterback. Look for the staff to be extremely active with visitors who could contribute on the defensive front.

The Pickerington, Ohio, native will have two seasons of eligibility remaining.

NEWS: Per 247sports, #Illini DL Angelo McCullom is entering the transfer portal. Tough loss for McCullom who was one of the bright young pieces in the Illinois D-line room.

In 2025, he had 19 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, two quarterback hurries and two pass breakups… pic.twitter.com/PZyNae3zd6

— Armchair Illinois (@ArmchairIllini) January 8, 2026

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