Football
Illinois Football news: Three-star LB Anthony James commits to the Illini
James is the ninth commit for the Illini in the class of 2027
Big-time Illinois football news was announced yesterday, June 13th. Per Riley Alberts of 247sports, three-star linebacker Anthony James has committed to the Illini amidst his official visit to campus. The La Marque, Texas, Linebacker announced his decision on Instagram and became the ninth commitment in the Illini’s class of 2027.
James held offers from Baylor, Oklahoma State, North Carolina, Purdue, and more. As of right now, 247sports has James as the number 131 linebacker in the class of 2027. As a Junior, Anthony James recorded 134 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 3.0 sacks.
James is the second linebacker to commit to Illinois football in the class of 2027. A few weeks ago, three-star in-state linebacker Sean Rice joined the class. Both players get up and down the field with decisiveness and exceptional speed. With Illinois football switching to a 3-3-5 defense, Anthony James is exactly the type of player who will thrive. He plays with speed and aggression and can line up at multiple spots on the field. Because of how aggressive and fast he is, look for James to come in and make an early impact on Special Teams.
PER @CfbRalb : Illinois has landed three-star LB Anthony James
James attends La Marque HS in TX. He chose the Illini over Baylor, Colorado, and Purdue. He is currently on campus for his official visit pic.twitter.com/6KITSLCmW1
— Armchair Illinois (@ArmchairIllini) June 14, 2026