Early Look at the Top 3 High-Impact Illinois Football Transfer Portal Additions
Illinois football has made significant strides this offseason by securing several key transfers to fill critical roster gaps. With 16 new players added via the transfer portal for the 2025 season, three stand out as potential game-changers.
1. Hudson Clement – Wide Receiver
Wide receiver was a major area of need after Illinois lost standout players Pat Bryant and Zakhari Franklin to the NFL. In response, the Illini landed Hudson Clement from West Virginia. Clement had a breakout 2024 season, recording 51 catches for 741 yards and five touchdowns. Known for his precise route running and reliable hands, he’s dropped only three passes on 108 career targets. Clement is expected to become a primary target for quarterback Luke Altmyer and help stabilize the wide receiver unit.
2. James Thompson Jr. – Defensive Lineman
The defensive line has lacked standout talent since Jer’Zhan Newton’s departure. James Thompson Jr., transferring from Wisconsin, is poised to change that. Though he missed the 2024 season due to injury, his previous three years were productive. In 2023, he posted 29 tackles, three sacks, and two pass deflections. With 39 games played and 18 starts in his career, Thompson brings experience and leadership to a unit that could be much improved with his presence.
3. Keelan Crimmins – Punter
While often overlooked, the punter position became a major concern after the departure of both of Illinois’ 2024 punters. The Illini addressed this by bringing in Purdue transfer Keelan Crimmins, who earned All-Big Ten honorable mention recognition. Crimmins averaged 44.9 yards per punt last season, with 14 punts exceeding 50 yards and 17 landing inside the 20-yard line. His ability to manage field position could have a significant impact on the Illini’s overall performance in 2025.
