Illinois Football News: Eyes turn to J.C. Davis after JUCO Eligibility Rules change

Who knew that news at Vanderbilt University could impact the University of Illinois? After former JUCO QB Diego Pavia was granted eligibility in the 2025 season, the NCAA made the ruling that all former junior college football players will have one additional year of eligibility. With that ruling made official, Bret Bielema wasted no time and hopped on a plane to Oakland, California. Why would Bielema travel to the other side of the country during the holidays and the week of a major Bowl Game? Well, left tackle J.C. Davis was there and now the star lineman has the chance to come back for one more year of eligibility.

With star QB Luke Altmyer deciding to return and most of the rest of the offensive line group returning, J.C. Davis would certainly help push Illinois football over the top.

Not that easy of a decision

However, the decision is not that easy. J.C. Davis is an NFL prospect. He recently accepted an invite to the Senior Bowl and could very likely be invited to the NFL Combine. In recent years, Illinois has had Isaiah Adams and Doug Kramer Jr. hear their names called at some point in the NFL Draft. Davis could be the next Illinois Football lineman to do so and turning that down for one more year is not an easy decision to make. But Bielema can sell development and the chance to yet again play on a winning team. As always, Bret Bielema wants what is best with his players, however, also made it known that there is a sell for Davis to return as one of college football’s premier linebackers.

Davis has until January 15th to give Illinois football news of his decision. With so much to gain, the decision will be heavily anticipated by all of Illini fans.

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