The Farrell Files: New Look Illinois

A New Approach to PWOs

An interesting note on Illinois and preferred walk ins. They have about 15 official visits or so left to give in the 2023 class and as a former walk-on, Coach Bielema has a soft spot for walk-on players who don’t usually get to take official visits and feel the pomp and circumstance of the recruiting process. I hear Illinois is bringing in seven confirmed visitors, all preferred walk ons, this weekend and there’s a good chance many of them commit. 

Illinois is slightly different than some bigger programs in the Big Ten, as preferred walk ons have a better chance to get a fair shake I’m told. He's seen first-hand at both Iowa and Wisconsin — two programs with some of the strongest walk-on programs in the country — how impactful a strong PWO program can be.

Deep Class on the Defensive Line

And finally, Illinois has three defensive ends and one defensive tackle in this class. Obviously they would have preferred a second DT but it looks like the Jamel Howard ship has sailed. Here’s my breakdown of each…

DE Alex Bray is an interesting get. The staff fell in love with his effort, tenacity and motor as well as his physical frame which will either grow into a run stopping end or a defensive tackle. His ability to grow to an interior lineman is one of the reasons he was a take without a ton of offers. He’s a few years away but could be an important player in run defense. He’s a low 3 star to me.

DE Mason Muragin is a kid I like better than most and would have him as a high 3-star while most have him as a lower tier player. He’s not overly long but he has a very good first step and he has a frame that will add muscle and that will improve his play against the run. You can’t teach speed around the corner and use of hands and he has both. He’s thick already at 242 and will get thicker.

DE Patrick Farrell (no relation) has a great motor and effort isn’t a question. His technique is improving but how good an athlete is he? That’s the question. He’s long and has raw skills and he’s a physical kid but right now I’d say low 3-star and he’s more of an effort kid.

And finally, DT Jeremiah Warren is key to this class. He’s a low 3-star to me but he has some athleticism and good size at 6-3 and 290. He’s another effort kid the coaches love and who will have a chance for early playing time.