Why Illinois Football is “Unmatched” For 2026 Commit Jacob Alexander

Illinois Football secured a prime in-state commitment on January 27, as 3-star Chicagoland edge rusher Jacob Alexander became the program’s sixth overall pickup in the class of 2026 (currently at 7). The Frankfort (IL) native chose the Illini despite holding offers from several highly respected programs, including Big Ten foes, ultimately feeling at home just 100 miles south in Champaign.

Great home visit with illini 💙🧡 pic.twitter.com/BYkgeg81On

— Jacob Alexander (@JAlexander_88) January 11, 2025

What sets the Illinois staff apart from other programs that recruited you?

For Alexander, the Illini staff’s attention to the overall process was key to making his pledge to stay home with Illinois. Certainly, the road to his commitment was a team effort within the walls of the Smith Center.

“The Illini stood out, because of the people in the building from every department and the connection I built with them all.” stated the talented pass rusher. “The staff is unmatched because of the detail they put into recruiting me – showing me how their defense runs everything. I felt like I could trust them the most with my future.

Offer List: Michigan, Purdue, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Minnesota, Michigan State, Rutgers, Mizzou, Kansas Kansas State, Louisville,  Cincinnati

When did Illinois first pique your interest, and who stood out for you on the Illini staff?

Coach Bielema’s efforts to rebuild connections within the state have continued to pay off for Illinois Football. The Illini’s early and consistent presence in Jacob’s recruitment played a crucial role, ultimately solidifying their position as the clear choice for the om-state prospect.

“Illinois showed interest first, at the beginning of my sophomore year and they’ve stayed consistent the whole time,” says Alexander. “Coach Jamison recruited me the heaviest,” in reference to Illini defensive line coach Terrance Jamison.

Which college or NFL player do you draw inspiration from as a young Edge Rusher?

“I actually like to watch a lot of Gabe Jacas,” said Alexander. “His ability to rush the passer at the OLB position is amazing, and I like to watch a lot of his moves.” 

“I also watch some Abdul Carter as well.” (Penn State Junior Defensive End).

What The Film Tells Us

Jacob’s surprising shiftiness, combined with his 6’4″, 240-pound frame, allows him to create separation from opposing offensive tackles in a highly competitive Chicagoland conference. His impressive hand technique (especially for a junior) helps him gain the edge, putting him in a prime position to pressure the quarterback and get home for a TFL/Sack.

On a Bret Bielema team, you can never have enough talented defensive linemen. Certainly, Alexanders seems like a high-quality pickup for Illinois Football, and a continually developing and progressing defensive front. The intangibles are there for Alexander to make an early impact, after a season or two to develop with Tank Wright at the Big Ten level.

Watch Alexander’s Junior Season (2024) Film: HERE 

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