Football
Why Illinois Was The Right Fit For Georgia State Transfer Deuce Fillmore
Why Champaign felt like home for the talented defensive back transfer.
Illinois football continues to lean on the transfer portal to address key roster needs, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. One of Defensive Coordinator Aaron Henry’s more intriguing additions of the early offseason is Georgia State defensive back Damaryion “Deuce” Fillmore, who will join the Illini in 2026 for his final season of eligibility.
A multi-stop veteran with experience at the junior college ranks (two seasons at Mississippi Gulf Coast CC, 2023-24) and in the Sun Belt Conference at Georgia State, Fillmore brings maturity and proven production to an Illinois secondary that will feature several new faces in 2026. With Xavier Scott likely headed to the NFL, in addition to the transfers of Kaleb Patterson, Donovan Turner, Amar Reynolds, and Vernon Woodward III following the Illini’s Music City Bowl victory, there’s undoubtedly going to be plenty of competition in Corey Parker’s unit entering next season.
In 2025, the Biloxi, Mississippi native recorded 39 tackles (23 solo) and 3 PBU’s at Georgia State. On the flip, Fillmore only allowed 226 yards and 2 touchdowns on 22 catches, over 12 games with the Panthers. As Illinois prioritizes experience in the secondary, Deuce arrives as a likely starter who has produced in high-usage leadership roles.
Thankfully, Fillmore offered perspective on his journey and development behind his rise from JUCO to the Big Ten.
ICYMI: Illinois signed former Georgia State Cornerback Deuce Fillmore. Fillmore will have one season of eligibility remaining
In 2025, he started all 12 games and had 3 total pass breakups. pic.twitter.com/zPnUuZQwUh
— Armchair Illinois (@ArmchairIllini) January 10, 2026
A Journey Built on Patience and Perspective
Reflecting on his journey and how each stop prepared him for this final opportunity, Fillmore pointed to patience, faith, and perspective as defining forces in his development.
“It’s shaped me in a lot of ways.” Deuce stated, in reference to his colligate path thus far. “The journey taught me patience and helped me keep my faith, because God really does work in mysterious ways. Going from Juco, to the Group of Five, and now to the Big Ten is a blessing. Each stop prepared me mentally and physically, and it’s given me perspective. Now I’m grateful to have the opportunity to compete at the highest level and see how far this game can take me. I’m focused on making the most of this final season with the Illini.”
Why Illinois Stood Out for Deuce Fillmore?
Following a challenging season at Georgia State, Fillmore entered the transfer portal searching not only for an opportunity in the power 4, but for a program that aligned with his long-term goals. That search quickly led him to Illinois and Bret Bielema’s staff.
“It was a tough season at Georgia State, and things just didn’t go our way. But, I thank them for that opportunity because without it I wouldn’t be here,” Deuce explained. “As for picking Illinois, man, Coach Aaron (Henry), and Coach Parker were the main reason. They weren’t trying to sell me a dream — they actually care about getting you developed and to the league. That was my main thing.”
Deuce Fillmore. Damaryion Fillmore. Georgia State. Defensive Back. Photo Credit: Deuce Fillmore. (@thedeucefillmore). 2025.
Consistency is Key
After putting together a productive season in the Georgia State secondary, Fillmore believes the jump to the Big Ten will certainly demand an even sharper version of his game.
“I know there’s another level I have to reach. That means better eye discipline, cleaner technique, and being more physical and decisive in coverage,” he explained. “I want to be a complete defensive back — someone the coaches and my teammates can trust in any situation.”
How Deuce’s Time in the Sun Belt Prepared Him for Big Ten Saturdays
Fillmore’s productive 2025 season in the Sun Belt proved he could handle responsibility at the D1 level, but the jump to the Big Ten has placed his focus on elevating every detail of his game.
“I know there’s another level I have to reach,” he said. “As I make the jump to the Big Ten, I’m really focused on consistency and the small details — better eye discipline, stronger technique, and being more physical and decisive in coverage. I want to be a complete defensive back who can be trusted in any situation.”
That attention to detail will be critical as Fillmore prepares for the weekly grind of one of college football’s biggest stage.
“The biggest challenge is the speed and physicality week in and week out,” Fillmore said. “In the Big Ten, every offense has size, depth, and NFL-level talent — there’s no drop-off. I’m preparing by sharpening my technique, studying more film, and taking care of my body so I can be consistent every snap. Mentally, I’m focused on playing faster and trusting my preparation.”
Deuce Fillmore. Damaryion Fillmore. Georgia State. Defensive Back. Photo Credit: Deuce Fillmore. (@thedeucefillmore). 2025.
Setting the Standard in the Secondary
As he enters his final collegiate season, Fillmore sets clear goals for himself and the Illinois defense — embracing his role as a veteran leader.
“Individually, my goal is to be consistent every day and every rep and be a dependable defensive back…. Do my job and make plays when the opportunity comes,” he said. “I want to help elevate the standard in the secondary. As a team, the goal is to win, compete for a Big Ten championship, and play disciplined football while building something special at Illinois.”
He also had a message for Illini fans: “Stay with us… Bring the energy this spring and fall,” Fillmore said. “We’re about to put in the work. We’re hungry and we’re committed to representing Illinois the right way.”
The Influencers that Built Deuce Fillmore
Finally, Fillmore pointed to the belief and support of early supporters as foundational to his success.
“I love this question because I get to shout out my favorite people,” Fillmore said. “My JUCO coach, Coach (Clerance) McDougal — he’s number one. He took a chance on me and taught me a lot. Then my high school coaches, Coach (Nick) Brett and Coach (Katlan) French — they helped get me here and are still helping me now. “Plus, Coach (Glenn) Ford, the last coach I played for at Georgia State.
He Continued, “And, of course, my cousin who comes to support me every game he can.”
— Damaryion “deuce” Fillmore (@d1_deee) September 18, 2025
