Illinois Extends Offer to Rising Florida EDGE Prospect DeAnthony Lafayette
DeAnthony Lafayette, a three-star edge rusher from Orlando, Florida, continues to see his recruitment gain momentum, with the University of Illinois being the latest program to show serious interest. On Thursday, Illinois officially extended an offer to Lafayette, marking a significant moment in his recruitment journey.
The scholarship offer came after Illinois co-outside linebackers coach Trent Harris reviewed Lafayette’s game film. According to Lafayette, Harris initially contacted his high school coach on Wednesday night. Impressed by what he saw, Harris decided to visit Lafayette in person the next morning—and by the end of their first meeting, he offered Lafayette a spot on the team.
“He told me my film was second to none,” Lafayette said. “It was my first time talking to him, and by the end of our conversation, he said he was offering me a scholarship.”
This offer is particularly meaningful for Lafayette as it’s his first from a Big Ten program. He expressed appreciation for Coach Harris’s perspective, noting that Harris, having also played as an undersized edge rusher, understands the challenges and drive needed to succeed at the position.
As Lafayette’s recruitment continues to gain traction, the offer from Illinois marks another important milestone in what is shaping up to be a breakout stretch for the Orlando native.
