Football
Which Illinois Football RB Made a Position Change This Spring?
The Illini need depth at the tight-end spot and have an incredibly deep running back room
As Illinois Football kicks off spring practices, head coach Bret Bielema enters a critical evaluation window for position groups and individual players.
While a number of key contributors remain sidelined with injuries, limiting their participation in spring ball, the Fighting Illini staff remains tasked with piecing together their 2025-26 roster ahead of summer’s season-preparatory practices. With that, of course, comes inevitable roster shuffling.
According to Bielema, one of Illinois’ most promising and highly anticipated running back prospects is making a transition out of Thad Ward’s room. In an effort to strengthen one of the Illini’s thinner position groups, this talented back is shifting from a crowded offensive backfield to a spot in need of talented (immediate impact) depth.
During his media availability, Bielema provided the scoop on who’s making the switch.
Dec 31, 2024. Orlando, FL, USA. A Illinois Fighting Illini helmet sitting on confetti after the game against the South Carolina. Camping World Stadium. Credit: Jeremy Reper – Imagn Images.
Which Illinois Football Running Back Is Making the Switch?
Bielema has now confirmed that 6’4 running back Jordan Anderson has made the transition from running back to tight end. The sophomore from Joliet (IL) has seen limited action since arriving in Champaign. In 2024, Anderson recorded just 12 yards on 6 carries. However, his transition from a deep and experienced running back room to a tight end group in need of depth behind Cole Rusk and Tanner Arkin could provide a strong opportunity to compete for a more immediate impact.
“What we did purposely is we just shifted him to the tight end room,” says Bielema.
When asked if this would continue through his career at Illinois, Bielema replied, “Forever is the wrong word.”
“In the spring, we worked him in with Disch (Robby Discher), and he’s working as a tight end. I gave him a graphic in the middle of the year last year, when we asked him to do it. I gave him 3 or 4 tight ends in the last draft. Wouldn’t give thier names, but I gave their numbers… How big are they? How Tall are they? And what will they do? He (Anderson) was like “Yeah….” (interested) and I said “Alright,” Bielema enthusiastically stated. “So, he’s been awesome.”
Bielema continued, “He’s extremely intelligent, his care is through the roof, and he’s motivated to get on that field. So, I’ve been happy with his progress.”
Video Credit – Illini Inquirer
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