The Class of 2025 linebacker from West Chester Township, Ohio, made his commitment to Illinois official on Thanksgiving Day.
Grant Beerman, a senior standout from Lakota West High School, announced that he will join coach Bret Bielema and the Illini in Champaign rather than Purdue.
On Thursday, Beerman used his X social media account to share his decision, stating: “After careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to decommit from Purdue University. This has been a challenging choice, but I believe it is the best step for my personal and athletic growth at this time.”
Standing at 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, Beerman is a four-star linebacker according to 247Sports. In his junior season, he recorded 79 tackles, including 12 for losses and four sacks, showcasing his ability as a disruptive force and versatile defender.
His skill set aligns well with Illinois’ need for an impactful, sideline-to-sideline playmaker at the second level of their defense.
It’s uncertain whether Beerman’s Lakota West teammate, Class of 2026 four-star linebacker Cam Thomas, influenced his decision. Thomas recently narrowed his recruitment to six schools, including Illinois.
However, what is clear is Illinois’ growing success in attracting higher-caliber recruits. Beerman, ranked No. 47 among 2025 linebackers in 247Sports’ composite rankings, would be the highest-rated prospect in his class to sign with Illinois (8-3, 5-3 Big Ten), as the program continues its resurgence during one of its best seasons in years.
