Three-star Idaho transfer offensive lineman Ayden Knapik has signed with Illinois, bolstering the team’s offensive line for the 2025 season. The 6-foot-6, 295-pound tackle from Washington state has one season of eligibility left and was a First Team All-Big Sky selection in 2024. Knapik started three seasons for Idaho, playing two years at left tackle (2023-2024) and one at right tackle (2022). He posted a solid 67.2 overall PFF grade this past season, with a strong 78.0 pass-blocking grade, allowing just 12 pressures and 3 sacks.
Knapik began his career as a walk-on before earning a scholarship. He also received transfer offers from several schools, including Nevada, San Diego State, New Mexico, Wake Forest, and Washington State, and visited Iowa State.
This addition marks Illinois’ first offensive line transfer of the offseason, and Knapik is the ninth transfer to join the team overall. He adds depth and competition to an offensive line that returns all five starters, including All-Big Ten left tackle J.C. Davis and right tackle Melvin Priestly. With limited experienced depth following the departure of other players, Knapik provides flexibility as a swing tackle or could potentially challenge for a starting role, offering a reliable option if a guard position is impacted by injury or underperformance. His signing strengthens Illinois’ depth, versatility, and experience along the offensive line.
