Veteran NFL coaches play a significant role in the development of Michael Clayton II, a 4-star quarterback who recently committed to Illinois football. Under head coach Bret Bielema, the Illinois program has experienced a major turnaround, emerging from years of struggles to become a contender in the Big Ten. While the program is still in the process of rebuilding, its success on the field has set the foundation for further growth. The next step is recruiting top-tier talent, and Clayton’s commitment marks a key move in this direction.
Clayton, a four-star prospect from Florida, is ranked as the No. 183 player in the class of 2026. He had over 30 scholarship offers, including from top programs like Miami, Ole Miss, Missouri, and Iowa, but ultimately chose Illinois due to his trust in the coaching staff and their vision for his development. During his recent visit for the game against Minnesota, Clayton was impressed by the consistency of the coaches and their belief in his potential.
A standout at Seminole High School in Florida, Clayton is leading his team to the 7A FHSAA Football State Championship after an 8-1 season. He credits much of his growth to the mentorship of two highly respected quarterback coaches: Pat O’Hara and Jon Gruden. O’Hara, a former NFL quarterback and coach, and Gruden, a Super Bowl-winning coach with extensive experience working with elite quarterbacks like Brett Favre and Joe Montana, have helped Clayton refine both the mental and physical aspects of his game.
Clayton works with O’Hara and Gruden through Draft Academy, a facility in Orlando where he focuses on speed, strength, and recovery. His training includes fieldwork, film study, and board sessions with both coaches, which Clayton describes as invaluable in helping him elevate his skills.
With such elite coaching and a mindset focused on winning, Clayton is set to bring a high level of talent to Illinois. He compares his style of play to NFL stars like Patrick Mahomes and CJ Stroud, citing his ability to make throws from the pocket and on the run, as well as his strong pocket presence and accuracy. When he arrives at Illinois, Clayton promises to bring a competitive, winning mentality and a strong arm, with a particular ability to throw deep and fit passes into tight windows.
Michael Clayton
For Illinois fans, Clayton’s commitment signals a new era for the program, one where success and top-tier talent are becoming the norm. With players like Clayton joining the fold, Illinois football is aiming for higher aspirations, including Big Ten championships and College Football Playoff contention—goals that once seemed far out of reach but now feel much more attainable.
