Illinois Football TE Christian Abney’s Path to the Big Ten “A Blessing”

After two seasons at Ball State, recent tight end addition Christian Abney made the climb from the FCS to the Power 4 ranks—joining Illinois Football via the transfer portal to help bolster one of their few positions in need for a team with a lot of potential for a special season ahead.

The 6-foot-5, 245-pound target brings both experienced depth and potential upside for long-term development piece to a position group that’s looking to take a major leap forward in 2025.

The sample size of his early career isn’t a major tell thus far. However, the potential for a breakout is on the table for Abney — with work.

Over the course of his two seasons in Muncie (IN), Christian appeared in 26 games for the Cardinals, where he totaled 13 catches for 116 yards and a touchdown in 2023 and 2024. A former high school quarterback with a versatile athletic background, and strong frame, Christian possesses the tools to be a really solid long-term depth piece for Robby Discher’s unit. Plus, with two seasons of eligibility remaining, and the potential to redshirt available, there is time to get to work with Tank Wright to get into Big Ten shape.

The Illini have presented him with a rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete on college footballs biggest stage. For Abney, it’s a chance he fully intends to embrace—and make the most of. Christian spoke with Armchair Illini about his path to the Big Ten.

Nov 16. 2024. Champaign. Illinois. USA. Illinois. Fighting Illini. 38-16 win. Vs Michigan State. Memorial Stadium. Credit: Ron Johnson. Imagn Images.

FamILLy Vibes

From the moment he arrived on campus, Abney was impressed by the strong support system and tight-knit atmosphere within the Illinois Football program. It didn’t take long for the FCS transfer to feel the ‘FamILLy’ culture that Coach Bret Bielema has tirelessly cultivated in his tenure.

For Abney, it quickly felt like home.

“Getting to know the staff was a great experience, and I could sense the belief they had in me,” says Abney. “I could feel the family environment around the program and see that this team is headed in a great direction.”

Embracing the Process with Illinois Football

The transition from the FCS to the Big Ten is certainly a big step, but for Abney, it’s nothing new. He’s ready to apply the same work ethic and dedication that have guided him thus far, fully embracing the challenges of stepping up to the Power 4 level.

Looking ahead, Christian is confident his approach will translate well in Champaign, for an Illinois Football team with playoff potential in 2025.

“I see myself translating to the Big Ten with the same work ethic and process I’ve held my entire collegiate career. I’m excited to embrace the work and process ahead that comes with this opportunity.

He added, “I look forward to coming into the program and helping the team in whatever ways I can.”

Soaking in the Moment

For Abney, joining Illinois Football isn’t just another career milestone—it’s a special opportunity that he doesn’t take lightly. For that reason, he’s ready to embrace every moment, and maximize on his opportunities under the guidance of TEs’ coach Robby Discher and the rest of Bret Bielema’s staff.

“My biggest motivator in taking this step up to the Big Ten is just realizing that it’s a blessing. I know that having an opportunity like this is a major blessing and that motivates me to not take any of it for granted.”

Credit. The Touchdown with Doug Smith. YouTube. Christian Abney Touchdown. 

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