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My Evaluation: 2027 OT Cameron Wagner St. Joseph Ogden

EdgyTim
Name: Cameron Wagner

Position: OT

High School: St. Joseph Ogden

Graduation Year: 2027

Height: 6-foot-6

Weight: 300 pounds

Recruiting Status: Uncommitted. Wagner has already added offers from across the country this winter including multiple Power 4 offers. Wagner is planning a very busy spring visit season and he has made multiple unofficial visits already to both Illinois and Iowa. In my opiniin it's a coin flip right now between the Fighting Illini and the Hawkeyes for Wagner's services....but that's strictly a guess on my part.

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My impressions of Cameron Wagner: Cameron Wagner has been on my recruiting radar screen since the end of his freshman season at St. Joseph Ogden. Wagner who started for the Spartans in freshman football to start the 2023 season ended up mid season as a varsity starter. Wagner started to pick up recruiting interest and attention after his 2023 freshman season and added his first scholarship offer from Louisville in the winter of 2024. Wagner who also wrestled this winter for St Joseph Ogden for the first time has continued to make big strides in the weight room as well as in the training room. Wagner has incredible size and physical tools that no question will allow him to continue to develop his game from here on out.

Evaluation of Cameron Wagner Cameron Wagner is no question one of the top linemen to watch both regionally and nationally in the State of Illinois Class of 2027...a class that is quickly starting to develop in to a big time class loaded with multiple nation level names...and Wagner no question is in that team picture. Wagner has eyeball passing frame, height, length and reach and add in a kid who also has an impressive work ethic and fire and it's easy to see why so many schools are already on board. Wagner this winter. Wagner on film plays with a high motor and effort on literally every snap, seems pretty comfortable getting to the second level of blocks and is an impressive finisher. Wagner is also much improved in his pass pro and this will be a part of his continued development at the high school level over the next two seasons. Wagner, who is also a very strong student in the class room is also a very well mannered kid to talk to and someone who n o question has a pretty good idea of where he wants to be over the next handful of seasons. Again the biggest appeal in my opinion for Wagner is his advnced physial tools, along with still being just a sophomore in high school with two years of high school still ahead of him. I truly can't want to see his overall growth and development over the next two years here.

Room for improvement? The same areas of improvement for Cameron Wagner pretty much fgoes fror every high school linemen regardless of ranking. Wagner will need to continue to work on his overall bend, flexibility footwork and pass pro technique. Wagner plays in a pretty run heavy offense and was very seldom matched up against anyone remotely close to his size at the high school level and that allowed him to pretty much physically overwhelm his opponent. Wagner will need to work hard in the off season and in various camps against bigger, stronger opponents and start to prepare to face off against bigger, stronger and older opposing defensive linemen. Adjusting to taking on college aged linemen at the Power 4 level is no walk in the park and the more preperation Wagner can get in the better for him now and down the line.

Projected level: Rivals has Cameron Wagner ranked as a mid 4 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #154 top recruit in the nation.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: Again when you get initially ranked as a mid 4 start and inside the Top 250 nationally....it's pretty hard to argue against Wagner's ranking. I'm very excited for Cameron Wagner over the next few seasons at the high school level along with his development on the college level. Wagner has all the physical tools and potential to become a monster on my opinion. Wagner is a great kid on and off the field, has smarts and is just a well mannered kid with a tremendous family/support system. With some luck and a few breaks here and there....I can see Wagner taking things to a very, very high level.
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My Evaluation: 2026 Mt. Zion TE JC Anderson

EdgyTim
Name: JC Anderson

Position: TE

High School: Mt. Zion

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 6-foot-7

Weight: 235 pounds

Recruiting Status: Uncommitted. Anderson is holding multiple Power 4 scholarship offers and is being sought after on a national basis. Anderson recently announced he will make official visits to Illinois, North Carolina, Auburn and Notre Dme this spring with a decision expected after he takes his visits. Illinois seems to be the leader for in-state JC Anderson and landing Anderson would be a huge in state boost to the already strong Fighting Illini efforts so far in the Class of 2026.

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My impressions of JC Anderson: I was able to see JC Anderson live at various summer team 7on7 events along with a few different showcase events. Anderson, who is also an impressive multi-sport athlete including being an All State basketball player for downstate Mt. Zion has been an impact player for the Braves football program over the past few seasons. Anderson checks in at 6-foot-7, 235 pounds and Anderson plays with impressive body control and he's truly a high level athlete at the tight end position. Anderson also played defensive end full time last fall for the Braves and expect him to again be a factor on both sides of the football for his 2025 senior season. Anderson in 2024 was named as an All State All Area and All Conference performer in both football and basketball and Anderson was a key leader for the Braves who made it to the Class 4A state title game and lost to DePaul Prep 40-6 to finish the season at 10-4. Anderson is a very strong personality on and off the field who is easily one of my more favorite kids to talk to in this class. Anderson is well spoken and very well mannered kid mature beyond his years and at times already sounds like he'a playing at the Power 4 level when it comes to dealing with various media. Anderson on and off the field is a pleasure to work with over the past few seasons. Anerson's recruiting process really took off ab out a year ago from today....when he was able to add 5 Power 4 offers in a two day period and his stock has never slowed down since that point of his process.

Evaluation of JC Anderson: JC Anderson is one of those rare kids you'll seldom see on the recruiting trail every year.....basically because the combination of his physical tools, skill set, athletic skills and ability are very high and remain as in demand as ever. Anderson is listed at 6-foot-7, 235 pounds and his overall length and reach along with his ball skills, football IQ and sheer ability to just catch the football consistently well along with making things happen after the catch is simply uncanny. Anderson has slowly added more good weight and strength and his frame will no question allow him to get much bigger and stronger once he's locked into training and playing in just one sport. Anderson is a very solid overall pass catching tight end and a willing blocker, and his unselfishness when it comes to playing on defense for his team is noted. Anderson really stands out when he's able to get downfield against a defender and into 50/50 jump ball situations when his overall length reach and want to will make it incredibly tough on any opposing defender. He also runs well for such a big kid and has better downfield speed and gears than you might expect.

Room for improvement? JC Anderson has a ton to offer but like every high school player has room to grow and things to improve. Anderson, who in many ways has been a non stop multi sport athlete in high school will need to add more good weight and strength for the Power 4 level while also being able to maintain his speed and quickness/explosiveness. Anderson, much like everyone else will need to make the adjustment from 4A sized Mt. Zion to playing against grown ass men at the Power 4 level, especially the speed and soul crushing hits he will take on a consistent basis.

Projected level: Rivals has JC Anderson ranked as a high 4 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #118th top recruit in the Nation in the Rivals Class of 2026 recruit rankings.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: Illinois has been blessed this season with having some truly national level recruits and that definitely includes Mt. Zion TE JC Anderson. Anderson has a ton of upside and I'm also excited to see how well he can develop his game at the Power 4 level over the next few years. I can see Anderson becoming a big time name at the Power 4 level and in my mind it will just depends on a question of how long will his adjustment period takes. I see Anderson Rivals ranking and it's pretty hard to argue against where he's at for now.
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My Evaluation: 2026 Mount Carmel EDGE Braeden Jones

EdgyTim
Name: Braeden Jones

Position: EDGE

High School: Chicago Mount Carmel

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 6-foot-5

Weight: 250 pounds

Recruiting Status: Committed to USC. Jones has been committed to the USC Trojans since October of 2024 and chose the Trojans over offers from over literally every Power 4 program in the nation. Jones very quietly made a game day visit to USC and came home the next day and committed to the Trojans.

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My impressions of Braden Jones: Braeden Jones first hit my recruiting radar screen during the summer of his freshman season when I saw hin live at a handful of camp and showcase events. Looking at Jones on the hoof as a freshman was in many ways like looking at a puppy.....Jones had big levers (arms and legs) with exceptional length and reach while also possessing a frame that was going to add much more needed weight and strength. Jones did not start on the Caravan varsity as a freshman but did see considerable playing time and a ton of reps that freshman season. Jones became a full time starter as a sophomore and has never looked back since that point. Jones was able to continue to add good weight and strength over the next few years led by the Caravan strength program and coach Joe Kubit. Jones really saw his recruiting stock take off early during his sophomore season when Akron was his first scholarship offer and then he was on literally everopnes recruiting radar screen by the end of his sophomore season. Jones is a very strong student in the class room and also a very outgoing, well spoken young man who I've been able to interview multiple times.

Evaluation of Braeden Jones: Braeden Jones in many ways has just about everything you look for in an elite level defensive linemen at the highest level of college football recruiting. Jones has all the physical tools including great length and reach, very good overall speed with some quick twitch combined with surprising closing speed and brute strength. Jones comes off the edge hard and has improved his overall pass rushing tools and technique considerably each season. Jones also has a great nose for the football, can and will play the run exceptionally well and his ability to make plays inside with his combination of muscle and quick feet/hands is highly impressive. Jones is truly one of those defensive linemen who can make plays either in a phone booth or from one sideline to the other on literally every down. Jones was paid the ultimate compliment in 2024 as more and more opposing offenses started to truly run away from his side of the field which became more and more evident with film study this winter. The best part of Jones game is he still has room to add a bit more good weight and strength, along with improving his overall technique, fundamentals and is also very capable of raising his game a few more levels in my opinion.


Room for improvement? Braeden Jones has a ton of upside for sure, but like every high school player he still has work to do. Jones has no question taken his game higher and higher each season...but can he become an even more dominant player down in and down out? I say he can and improving his overall pass rush technique, add a few more pass rush moves and continue to get bigger/stronger and faster....and I truly look forward to seeing Jones as a senior in 2025

Projected level: Rivals has Braeden Jones ranked as a high 4 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #99th top recruit in the Nation in the Rivals Class of 2026 recruit rankings.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: It's pretty hard to argue with any kid that get's ranked as a high 4 star from the State of Illinois by Rivals...especially in a state that doesn't exactly get huge national props in many regards to rankings of Illinois kids on a national level over the many years. Jones no doubt has a ton to offer and I feel he is one of those few rare kids who if things go well for him at the next level could have an opportunity to pursue playing on Sundays in my opinion...and that's something I do NOT throw around lightly.
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My Evaluation: 2026 Olney East Richland OT Casey Thomann

EdgyTim
Name: Casey Thomann

Position: OT

High School: Olney East Richland

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 6-foot-7

Weight: 280 pounds

Recruiting Status: Committed to Illinois. Thomann was a pretty heavy lean to Illinois from very early on in his recruiting process. Thomann also had offers from the likes of Iowa, Eastern Michigan plus Nebraska and Northwestern.

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My impressions of Casey Thomann: Casey Thomann has been on my recruiting radar since his freshman year when a handful of coaches around the Little Illini conference began tipping me off about a enormous kid playing for East Richland as a sophomore. Thomann has been a dominant player for the Tigers and also a multiple sport athlete as well. Thomann no question was a key player in helping the Tigers go from a 0-9 record in 2023 to a 10-1 record last season and a state playoff appearance and Round 1 win in Class 4A. Thomann overall physical tools and upsdie for development no question are big keys here and Illinois will need to have a bit of patience with Thomann early on, but I can see this kid also having a shot at making some noise down the line while at Illinois.


Evaluation of Casey Thomann: Casey Thomann is every bit 6-foot-7 and 280 plus pounds and his raw physical and God given ability will allow him to develop and become a much different and a much more effective player at the Big Ten level in a year or two. Thomann has generally just steamrolled smaller opponents in his high school career and his sheer size and strength has allowed him to just dominate anyone lined up against hm the past few seasons. Thomann has been operating in a run heavy offense and his learning curve will also include having to really focus hard on his overall, pass pro technique along with just raising his overall game and intensity level for the Power 4 level. Thomann is in many ways a bit of a project in my opinion...yet his overall physical tools, strong work ethic and his "want to" is high and will serve him well over the next year plus as he gets ready for college football. It won't come easy for Thomann or really any high school linemen to be fully prepareed for college football out of high school....and the sooner Thomann can shorten that learning curve the better for Thomann and the Fighting Illini.


Room for improvement? Again the learning curve here will be very high on several levels for Thomann most importantly getting adjusted to and ready for the sheer level of power, speed and physicality of Power 4 football. Thomann again is a smaller school level player who has seen limited competition (again nothing you can control) especially going against kids of similar size and skill set. Thomann will need to also work on and improve his overall fundamentals and technique both in the run game as well and most importantly in pass pro.

Projected level: Rivals has Casey Thomann ranked as a mid 3 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #11th top recruit in the State of Illinois Class of 2026 recruit rankings.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: I pretty much agreee with the Rivals ranking here taking in to account everything. Yes....Casey Thomann will be a bit of a project early on and he will have a ton of work to do....yet he also has a chance to develop into a really strong player and someone who could benefit from the Illinois staff especially head coach Bret Bielema another small school kid back in the day who found a way to make it in the Big 10. Illinois continues to pile up wins on the recruiting trail and this is yet another important get for the Illinoi in my opinion.
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My Evaluation: 2026 Hinsdale Central OL Gene Riordan

EdgyTim
Name: Gene Riordan

Position: OT

High School: Hinsdale Central

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 6-foot-5

Weight: 280 pounds

Recruiting Status: Committed to Iowa. Gene Riordan is holding multiple Power 4 offers this winter from the likes of Illinois, Auburn, Boston College, Iowa, Northwestern, Oklahoma and strong interest from Notre Dame, Michigan and Wisconsin. Riordan has made multiple unofficial visits so far to Illinois, Iowa and Northwestern and plans to visit those three schools this spring along with Oklahoma and Minnesota.

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My impressions of Gene Riordan: Gene Riordan caught my attention last summer at various team camp events along with some team linemen challenges and also some one day camps. Riordan really stood out this past summer with showing impressive athletic ability in a bigger kid along with a very good motor, a kid who was able to learn and make quick adjustments and who also had a ton of physical development ahead of him. Riordan, who is also a very strong student in the class room was named as an all conference player in 2024 along with being an all area player as well for the Red Devils. Riordan has also seen his recruiting stock soar this past winter and has landed several offers over the December and January open recruiting period.


Evaluation of Gene Riordan: Gene Riordan has highly impressive video and one of the biggest draws to him is his overall physical upside and down the line development. Riordan measures in at 6-foot-5, 280 pounds and has the frame and length to add much more good weight and strength down the line in the next few seasons. Riordan looks to be pretty comfortable in his stance and is also a very fluid runner with good overall speed, bend and first few steps. Riordan also can pull and get out is a hurry and his overall feet and quickness no question will allow him also draw serious looks as a guard at the high Power 4 level. Riordan is also well schooled, is just technically sound linemen in either the run game or in pass pro and his ability to keep his legs under him and uses his power from his legs along with also having advance hand usage is yet another plus. Riordan also offers some versatility for whatever school lands him and I feel his overall value is greatly improved because of his overall skill level and his ability to adjust and play effectively at any spot on the offensive lines.


Room for improvement? Gene Riordan no question still has work to do in the weight room adding more good strength and weight. Riordan again has the frame and the length to get to say 300 pounds pretty easily and he can also carry that weight as well. Also like every other high school linemen. Riordan will need to prepare and get ready to square off against grown ass men at the Power 4 level. I'm also looking to see Riordan really take his game to a higher level in 2025 and become a truly dominant linemen at the high school level. Riordan last season showed some flashes of better things to come and he should be ready to truly have a dominant All State caliber season in 2025.

Projected level: Rivals has Gene Riordan ranked as a mid 3 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #14th top recruit in the State of Illinois Class of 2026 recruit rankings.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: I really get the feeling that Gene Riordan is a bit under valued at this stage when it comes to his Rivals ranking and has a real chance to raise his overall stock considerably in 2025. Riordan's overall game and skill set is high and his versatility along with his physical tools and skills will allow him to become a much improved recruit. I feel Riordan has a chance to become a high 3 star/low 4 star ranked player in the Class of 2026. I'm very excited to see his development next season and beyond,
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LB3 to the League - 2Nd Fastest Flyer at Combine 2025

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Mel Kiper Jr. has him at 19. I am not sure he is a first-rounder. Underwhelming junior year. Honestly, he did not explode off the ball when his number was not called, and was not a good blocker. Those things matter. I'd be curious what his 40 time will be at the combine. He will skip the bowl season to concentrate on that.

Good luck young man!
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My Evaluation: 2026 Wheaton St Francis WR Zachary Washington

EdgyTim
Name: Zachary Washington

Position: WR

High School: Wheaton St Francis

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 6-foot-2

Weight: 180 pounds

Recruiting Status: Uncommitted. Washington is holding multiple Power 4 offers from the likes of Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Kansas State, Miami Fla. Michigan State, Missouri. Ole Miss and several others. My guess is it will most likely come down to either Illinois or Wisconsin for Washington.

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My impressions of Zachary Washington: It seems like I've been watching Zachary Washington playing on a football field since he was in grade school, and in many ways I have. Washington is simply the football version of a basketball gym rat...which is a kid who works non stop, takes part in as many camps, showcase events and 7on7's as humanly possible. Washington in his 2024 junior season was caught 16 TDs 1450 Total Yards, and was named as a 1st Team IHSFCA All-State team, 1st Team Red Grange All-County, 1st Team CCL All-Conference along with being named as an honorable mention Gazette News All-State team. Washington has also been a varsity starter for the Spartans since his sophomore season and also a key weapon and target in the St Francis spread passing offense. Washington is also a very strong student in the class room along with having a very outgoing and personable personality on and off the field. Look for Washington to add a bit more good weight and strength over the next year plus and from a physical development standpoint he still has a bit of upside ahead of him in my opinion. The bottom line is Washington has a lot to offer and like both on and off the field.


Evaluation of Zachary Washington: Zachary Washington is an impressive receiver who has improved his overall game every year I've been following him. Washington plays with really good speed, has a bit of quick twitch along with very good hands. Washington is a fluid route runner who sells his routes well, is disciplined in his route running and is just fundamentally a very strong overall receiver. Washington has logged in a ton of work and reps and he no question is very polished as a receiver and player. Washington over the last few years as improved playing against and beating press man coverage and his ability to go get the football in jump ball situations is impressive. Washington has very good length and hops and more often than not he wins those all important 50/50 footballs. I can see Washington develop into a steady every down receiver at say the Big 10 level and has the tools and ability to become a regular in a year or two.


Room for improvement? Zachary Washington like every other high school player will no question need to adjust to playing at the Power 4 level and playing against grown men defending him down in and down out. Just the sheer level of physicality and strength at the Power 4 level of the opposing defensive backs can at times be eye opening....yet I feel Washington's work load, experience and consistently competing against elite level defenders over the last few seasons will help in that adjustment. Also I'm not sure if Washington is already maxed out physically from a down the line development standpoint... so in some ways he should be considered more of what you see is what you get in my opinion.

Projected level: Rivals has Zachary Washington ranked as a mid 3 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #11th top recruit in the State of Illinois Class of 2026 recruit rankings.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: Zachary Washington is simply a steady, very impressive receiver who just comes to work everyday and get after it. Washington has very strong overall work ethic and is someone who just seems hell bent on getting better and better each day. Washington in the bigger picture just does a lot of things well here and I can easily see him carry that approach and mentality forward to the high college level. I like Washington here as mid to high 3 star ranking and one of the top receivers in the State of Illinois in the Class of 2026.
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My Evaluation: 2027 Libertyville TE Brock Williams

EdgyTim
Name: Brock Williams

Position: TE

High School: Libertyville

Graduation Year: 2027

Height: 6-foot-5

Weight: 210 pounds

Recruiting Status: Uncommitted. Williams is already holding multiple offers from multiple Power 4 program in the nation.

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My impressions of Brock Williams: I was able to see Libertyville 2027 WR/TE Brock Williams live in game last season in a back and forth win over Warren Township ;late in the regular season. Williams was part of a stacked Wildcats offensive skills group in 2024 which also included senior QB Quinn Shambow (Oklahoma State baseball) and then junior WR Blaise LaVista who has since transferred to Lincoln Way East for the 2025 season. Williams was an instant eyeball passing athlete who has an impressive combination of height, size and length and Williams possesses a frame that will no question allow him to add much more good weight and strength over the next few seasons. Williams, who is a very strong student in the class room is a smart and well spoken kid on and off the field and a multi-sport athlete as well. Willians has really seen his recruiting stock take off this winter, especially in a very busy month of January which has seen him add multiple Power 4 offers. Look for Williams to also have plenty of opportunities to benefit from NIL at the Power 4 level playing a high in demand position along with having the overall physical tools and impressive upside from an overall developmental standpoint.

Evaluation of Brock Williams Brock Williams is also is one of the nation's top ranked tight ends in the Class of 2027 and his overall recruiting stock has just skyrocketed since the fall. Williams in many ways could easily play receiver and has the overall speed, hands and length to easily slide out wide at receiver, go more into the slot as more of a West Coast tight end and/or can also play as an additional linemen in the run game at the Power 4 level. Williams has very good speed and quickness, runs disciplined routes and his hand strength, ability to win jump balls in heavy traffic is at a very high level for the high school level. Williams again will be a much different looking player in a year or two.....he's already added a solid 10-15 pounds of muscle since last season along with his continued training will just allow him to take his game to a much higher level. What I feel separates Williams from many others at the tight end position and what makes him an elite level name you ask? Williams already impressive size, length and speed/twitch are all something you just don't see very often at the tight end position...then combine his receiver skills and bal skills and overall on the field awareness...and that skill set is no question very unique.

Room for improvement? Brock Williams will no question need to adjust to the college game including getting matched up against grown men down in and down out. He will also need to improve his overall technique and overall receiver fundamentals and be able to beat both faster and stronger defenders at both linebacker and defensive back. Williams will also need to work on his overall blocking and become much more physical both in run blocking along with just being able to match his level of physicality overall at the Power 4 level.

Projected level: Rivals has Brock Williams ranked as a high 4 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2027 along with being the #27 ranked recruit in the nation in the Class of 2027 per Rivals. Williams is also the nation's #2 ranked tight end nationally according to Rivals rankings.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: After seeing Brock Williams last fall I had pretty much zero question that he would become both high ranked in state along with in the Midwest as well as Nationally. Williams has all the tools to develop over the next 3-4 years into a monster and will be yet another in a long line of some very strong tight ends out of the State of Illinois. Again Williams overall size, physical tools and especially his potential growth and upside/development is simply ridiculous to be honest. William will have a very good shot at eventually being a5 star name here in my opinion.
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My Evaluation: 2026 Dunlap Tight End Mack Sutter

EdgyTim
Name: Mack Sutter

Position: TE

High School: Dunlap

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 6-foot-6

Weight: 225 pounds

Recruiting Status: Uncommitted holding offer from literally every Power 4 program in the nation. Has named a Top 5 schools list Illinois/Ole Miss/Ohio State/Penn State and Alabama

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My impressions of Mack Sutter: I've been able to watch Mack Sutter live numerous times including live in action in his sophomore season for Dunlap when they played at Blue Island Eisenhower in the 2023 IHSA state playofff (A Dunlap OT loss). I was able to first stumble across Mack Sutter at a team 7on7the summer before his sophomore season and he immediately caught my attention on the hood. Sutter was actually playing quarterback and linebacker for the Eagles at that 7on7 event as well as during his 2023 season and was a very solid quarterback for Dunlap. Sutter, who's father Ed played linebacker at Northwestern along with several stops in the NFL no question plays like a coaches son and has an advanced football IQ along with just possessing both a great personality who does a tremendous job in handling press/interviews for such a younger kid. Sutter is well mature beyond his years and is also a multi-sport athlete as well. Sutter is also a high academic athlete in the class room who will also have the opportunity to cash in on NIL....in short he's a kid you feel good about in your college football program.

Evaluation of Mack Sutter: Sutter is one of the nation's top ranked tight ends in the Class of 2026 and has been on recruiting radar screens after his freshman season at Dunlap. Sutter has added a considerable amount of good weight and strength since his sophomore season and he possesses the frame and build to add additional weight and strength over the next year plus. Sutter has a high level of physical tools including impressive hands, very good speed along with having the ability to shed an initial tackle and gain positiver yards after the catch on a consistent basis. Sutter's junior season video is strong and shows his overall ability and versatility, whether Sutter is placed outside as a receiver, playing on the line with a hand on the ground and blocking or really playing anywhere on the field....Sutter just is a naturally gifted athlete who can do a lot for any team. Sutter also is a high level receiver who goes out and attacks the football and shows to have very strong hands, especially in one on one/jump ball scenarios. Sutter will fight and scrap for any and all passes in his area code and the poor kid covering him at the high school level has very little shot here.

Room for improvement? Sutter will no question need to adjust playing football in Central Illinois to the highest level of football, and that same adjustment goes for really any and all kids moving from the high school level to the Power 4 level. Sutter will need to add additional size and strength, will need to fight off jams against 4 and 5 star linebackers and defensive backs while also finding a way to get open and then take punishment after the catch. At times we take this next step for granted....but unfortunately I can go over the years when "can't miss" kids missed...and in more cases than not it came down to being able to adjust to the speed and physicality of the big stage. Do I see that for Mack Sutter? No, I really do not but again if you want sunshine and roses....go elsewhere.

Projected level: Rivals has Mack Sutter ranked as a high 4 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #101 ranked recruit in the nation in the Class of 2026 per Rivals. Sutter, along with Mt. Zion TE JC Anderson are both nationally ranked Rivals Top 250 names.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: I've felt that Mack Sutter has been the state's Top tight end in the Class of 2026 for some time now and that's no knock to JC Anderson who is right on his heels. I feel Mack Sutter in some ways reminds meof former Highland High/Iowa and NFL tight end Sam LaPorta who I also covered and evaluated extensively while he was in high school. Sutter has been able to take full advantage of his numerous positives in his overall game along with his continued hard work and development. Again projecting any kid to reach the ultimate highest level of football ois very difficult and I won't here either...let's just say I would not be surprised to see Mack Sutter have a very long and also a very successful career at the next level and also the level after next. I feel pretty good about that possibility.
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My Evaluation: 2027 Maine South QB Jameson Purcell

EdgyTim
Name: Jameson Purcell

Position: QB

High School: Maine South

Graduation Year: 2027

Height: 6-foot-3

Weight: 195 pounds

Recruiting Status: Uncommitted is currently holding several Power 4 offers

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My impressions of Jameson Purcell: I've been able to watch the development of Jameson Purcell for some time now.....having him take part in my various camps as a grade school kid throwing with the older high schools kids. Purcell has been a name on the rise waiting to break out over the last few seasons and his time is finally here. Purcell has spent time and paid dues on the lower levels for the Hawks and Hall of Fame HC Dave Inserra as a freshman and was also the Hawks backup varsity quarterback to start the 2024 season. Purcell took over the Hawks starting quarterback position in mid season and basically never looked back. Purcell who is also a very strong student in the class room is a confident kid and player who just carries himself well on and off the field, rolls with a bit of a swagger while also not crossing the line between having self confidence and cocky. I've seen Purcell live numerous times both in live game action along with camp setting and I feel very comfortable in evaluating him here. Purcell also is another young man I truly enjoy talking to who has very good overall communication skills...a lost art if you will when it comes to this current generation in my opinion.


Evaluation of Jameson Purcell: Jameson Purcell is yet another Top level name in what has been a truly stacked State of Illinois Quarterback classes in 2026 and 2027. Purcell again has a ton of upside starting with his overall arm talent, fundamentals and his ability to make consistently strong throws pretty much anywhere all over the field. Purcell's touch especially his medium and deep ball is uncanny. Purcell I feel is a bit more of a pocket quarterback...but as able to show that he can and will run effectively with the football and has the ability to develop into a dual threat down the line (I expect his overall confidence level to soar in 2025 and I would not be surprised to see his running game take off). One of the real strengths in Purcells overall game is his ability to scan the field, check off on multiple targets amd make a quick and accurate decision. Purcell's patience in the pocket is also pretty rare for a high school quarterback and I'm also impressed how his eyes are always downfield while also having that sixth sense in feeling pressure and finding a way to escape that pressure.

Room for improvement? Purcell like pretty much every quarterback here will need to continue to develop hi gamer including working on his overall mechanics and fundamentals. Purcell as mentioned above can improve his running portion of his game and become a bit more of a threat on the run.....but again like a handful of other top tier signal callers here I don't see a ton of negatives here at all.

Projected level: Rivals has Jameson Purcell ranked as a high 4 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2027 along with being the #90 ranked recruit in the nation in the Class of 2027 per Rivals. Illinois will look to have a handful of nationally sought after quarterbacks in Purcell and Trae Taylor in the 2027 class (more on Trae Taylor coming soon) and again enjoy this overall quarterback renaissance we are seeing in these last two recruiting clsses in Illinois.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: No question in my mind that Jameson Purcell has the3 ovwerall tools, ability and makeup to develop into an elite level college quarterback over the next few seasons. Purcell was just simply fun to watch develop last season and he will continue to take his game up several m ore levels. I would also rank Jameson Purcell as a high 4 star recruit who I also feel has a legitimate chance at becoming s Top 10 quarterback nationally in the Class of 2027.
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My Eval: 2026 QB Jonas Williams Lincoln Way East

EdgyTim
Name: Jonas Williams

Position: QB

High School: Lincoln Way East

Graduation Year: 2026

Height: 6-foot-3

Weight: 205 pounds

Recruiting Status: Committed originally to Oregon, recently flipped his commitment and is now committed to USC

HUDL:

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My impressions of Jonas Williams: I've been able to watch Jonas Williams play live since his breakout freshman season at Bolingbrook and I have seen him play live in person at least a half dozen times since his freshman season. Williams, who began his high school career at Bolingbrook transferred to rival Lincoln Way East for his junior season and again had a very strong season for the Griffins and head coach Rob Zvonar. Williams, who is also a high level student and possesses a high GPA is a somewhat quiet, low key young man in the public eye and truly let's his full personality come out on the football field. Williams has been praised by both coaches and players a like for his quiet yet effective leadership ability in and out of the huddle as well as off the field.

Evaluation of Jonas Williams: Jonas Williams in my opinion has a very good chance at developing into the best ever quarterback to come out of the State of Illinois, certainly in my 30 plus year career of evaluating high school level prospects. Williams has ideal size and physical tools you look for in an elite level signal caller. Williams can and will stay in the pocket and beat opposing defenses consistently well, yet the magic comes out for Williams when he decided to scramble outside the pocket and creates with his legs. Williams makes strong reads, will make multiple check downs along with just having the ability to find multiple targets on an y given play. Williams has a very high football IQ and he just seems to make good reads and also knows when to push the envelope whether throwing a lazer beam or making a move on the run and gaining more yards in the open field running. Williams also possesses impressive arm talent, can and will make every required throws needed and his touch and feel for putting the football in the correct spot is uncanny.

Room for improvement? Williams can on ocassion force a throw here and there along with at times trying to make a play out of a broken play....again all understandable as he's trying to create something good from something bad. Williams also will need to continue to work on and improve his overall fundamentals and technique, something every quarterback at al levels need to do in the off season.

Projected level: Rivals has Jonas Williams ranked as a high 4 star ranked recruit in the Class of 2026 along with being the #45 ranked recruit in the nation in the Class of 2026 per Rivals. If you take a harder look at Williams earlier rankings it's pretty much nothing but a straight line up the rankings. Look for Williams to have a real chance to gain a 5th star from Rivals later this year, especially if Williams takes part in say the Elite 11 camp this summer.

EDGYTIM Recommended Initial Rankings: I'll always remember seeing Jonas Williams playing in his freshman season for Bolingbrook and coming way thinking ...wow. Williams was so physically advance at that age and his overall game, tools and fundamentals were just so advanced. I remember later that freshman season calling my old friend Brian Stumph at Elite 11 and telling him simply...."I have one here for you." Again Jonas Williams still has work to do and a long way to go....and besides putting in the work Williams will need a break here and there along the way......but Williams has so much upside and potential down the line it's truly exciting to watch.
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IHSFCA Hall of Fame Banquet ticket information

EdgyTim
I've been getting asked about ticket information for the upcoming IHSFCA Hall of Fame Banquet where I will receive the Ray Eliot Award.

Tickets: Can be obtained in one of two ways; online at ihsfca.com or the old fashioned way of mailing me a check made out to IHSFCA. Include your address and I will mail them back to you. Usually no later than a day after receiving. My address is:

Jeff Alderman
202 Forest Ridge Ct.
Glen Carbon, IL 62034

The deadline for ticket purchase is Wednesday, March 19th. Since we have been at the I Hotel we have to provide our meal caters with exact numbers a week early. So, tickets can not be purchased on the day of the event, or even on the weekend of the date. Please pay attention and not let this date slip by. It is not fun for me to tell people that we are filled up and have no tickets available. Once again inductees do not need a ticket and will be seated at Head Table.

Tables: Guest seating will be by tables of 8. We will let you reserve tables for the immediate family of inductees. Please let me know and we ask that you limit tables to immediate family only. Let me know how many tables you would like no later than March 3rd. All inductees will be at the Head Table.

Order of Events: The morning will start with a reception at 10:30am adjacent to the Heritage Hall in the I Hotel Conference Center. This is a great time to meet with old coaching colleagues and friends and family. There will be a cash bar and we will also have a photographer available for group and family pictures. I ask that everyone be there no later than 11:30am for a group picture and organization.

Questions
Dress: Usually inductees are sport coat and tie. Wives are usually dresses or suits. Guests are everything from dresses, suits and ties to business casual.

Food: We will have a greens salad, some type of roast chicken dinner with potato and vegetables. Child ticket will be chicken strips and fries. If you want a vegetarian meal please email me and let me know.

Duration: Usually the program lasts 2 to 2 and a half hours in length.


Looking forward to celebrating this truly humbling experience with all of you on March 29th at the IHotel in Champaign. y
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Feb 2025: Revised Class of 2026/2027/2028 Top Prospect OL

EdgyTim
Have an issue with either a spelling or height/weight or any other change? Email me edgytim@edgytim.com. Have a player I need to watch and know more about? Fill out the latest EDGYTIM Top Prospect survey 2.0. Thanks. and look for in depth breakdowns, position rankings and evaluations to follow shortly

Offensive Linemen

Class of 2026

OL Jaquaris Green Peoria 6-foot-4, 399 pounds 2026
OL Rico Schneider Marist 6-foot-7, 320 pounds 2026 (Purdue)
OL Ty Weiersheuser St Francis 6-foot-6, 290 pounds 2026
OL Hawken Anderson Glenbrook South 6-foot-3, 270 pounds 2026
OL Gene Riordan Hinsdale Central 6-foot-4, 270 pounds 2026
OL QwaMaine Spivery Brother Rice 6-foot-2, 310 pounds 2026
OL/DL Levi Mallette Chicago Hope 6-foot-1, 255 pounds 2026
OL Myles Batesky Libertyville 6-foot-4, 260 pounds 2026
OL Jacob Palucki Andrew 6-foot-5, 250 pounds 2026
OL Francis Karp New Trier 6-foot-3, 270 pounds 2026
OL Casey Thomann Olney 6-foot-7, 285 pounds 2026
OL Kellen Gamble Homewood Flossmoor 6-foot-5, 250 pounds 2026
OL Brody Basala Moline 6-foot-4, 280 pounds 2026
OL Conor Malenock St Patrick 6-foot-5, 300 pounds 2026
OL Claude Mpouma Chicago Mount Carmel 6-foot-7, 300 pounds 2026
OL Bryce Tencza Providence Catholic 6-foot-3, 230 pounds 2026
OL Owen Fors Barrington 6-foot-4, 275 pounds 2026
OL Zach Hultgren Burlington Central 6-foot-5, 280 pounds 2026
OL Zach Poole Lincoln 6-foot-5, 285 pounds 2026
OL Brennan Lackey Yorkville 6-foot-4, 286 pounds 2026
OL Jalin Strowder Carmel 6-foot-4, 330 pounds 2026
OL Lamont Miller Mount Carmel 6-foot-5, 290 pounds 2026
OL Tony Balanganayi Palatine 6-foot-4, 260 pounds 2026
OL Ryan Myers Batavia 6-foot-5, 290 pounds 2026
OL Evan Downer Palatine 6-foot-4, 280 pounds 2026
OL Declan Gill Mount Carmel 6-foot-4, 280 pounds 2026
OL Colton Barlow Dunlap 6-foot-3, 280 pounds 2-026
OL Cian Mahoney SHG 6-foot-5, 250 pounds 2026
OL Zion Elliott Mount Carmel 6-foot-2, 275 pounds 2026
OL Matthew Connors LW East 6-foot-5, 255 pounds 2026
OL Costa Kampas York 6-foot-5, 275 pounds 2026
OL Tommy Fraumann Loyola 6-foot-7, 250 pounds 2026
OL Jack Nolan Hersey 6-foot-4, 240 pounds 2026

Class of 2027

OL Cameron Wagner St Joseph Ogden 6-foot-6, 280 pounds 2027
OL Brogan Kjellesvik Morris 6-foot-4, 255 pounds 2027
OL AJ Coleman Sterling 6-foot-6, 270 pounds 2027
OL Josiah Wallace Mount Carmel 6-foot-6, 270 pounds 2027
OL Ethan Posey Lockport 6-foot-5, 290 pounds 2027
OL Frank McMillen St Francis 6-foot-1, 255 pounds 2027
OL Trey Foster Carmel Catholic 6-foot-3, 240 pounds 2027
OL Jackson Woods Fenwick 6-foot-4, 260 pounds 2027
OL Carlos Rios DePaul Prep 6-foot-5, 290 pounds 2027
OL Mason Hallaman LW East 6-foot-5, 250 pounds 2027
OL Angeles Coleman Sterling 6-foot-5, 260 pounds 2027
OL Brody Hibner Morris 6-foot-5, 265 pounds 2027
OL Cael Halley Olympia 6-foot-4. 340 pounds 2027
OL/DL Luke Injaychock Nazareth Academy 6-foot-6, 265 pounds 2027
OL Cade Koehler Sandburg 6-foot-5, 280 pounds 2027
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Feb 2025: Revised Class of 2026/2027/2028 Top Prospect RB

EdgyTim
Have an issue with either a spelling or height/weight or any other change? Email me edgytim@edgytim.com. Have a player I need to watch and know more about? Fill out the latest EDGYTIM Top Prospect survey 2.0. Thanks. and look for in depth breakdowns, position rankings and evaluations to follow shortly

Running Backs

Class of 2026

RB Phillip Goodrich Jr. Carmel Catholic 5-foot-11, 185 pounds 2026
FB Logan Abrams Cary Grove 6-foot-3, 220 pounds 2026
RB/WR Edward McClain Nazareth Academy 5-foot-6 150 pounds 2026
RB Nikolas Kokosioulos Maine South 5-foot-7, 145 pounds 2026
RB Jaylin Green Brother Rice 5-foot-8, 185 pounds 2026
RB Diesel McFadden Chicago Taft 6-foot-0, 200 pounds 2026
RB/DB Jaiduan Cranford Metamora 5-foot-9, 185 pounds 2026
RB Owen Yorke Wheaton South 5-foot-10, 195 pounds 2026
RB Craig Peacock Jr. JCA 5-foot-11, 160 pounds 2026
RB Reggie Gray Jr. Morgan Park 5-foot-9, 190 pounds 2026
RB Brody Gish LW East 5-foot-9, 180 pounds 2026
RB Maxwell Warner Whitney Young 5-foot-10, 185 pounds 2026
RB Aaron Stewart Warren Township 5-foot-7, 175 pounds (Illinois)
RB Jahan Abubakar LW West 6-foot-1, 185 pounds 2026

Class of 2027

RB/ATH Connor Wanzung St Ignatius 6-foot-0, 165 pounds 2027
RB Amir Tillman East St Louis 5-foot-10, 170 pounds 2027
RB Jayden Ellington Althoff 5-foot-11, 165 pounds 2027
RB TJ Lewis Bolingbrook 5-foot-9, 195 pounds 2027
RB LaDarius Foster Oak Lawn Richards
RB James Bell Simeon 5-foot-9, 195 pounds 2027
RB Jeremiah Stonewall Marian Catholic 6-foot-0, 185 pounds 2027

Next Up: Offensive Linemen
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