Illinois Football: Early Illini projected depth chart for 2018

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - OCTOBER 21: Head coach Lovie Smith of the Illinois Fighting Illini looks on during the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers on October 21, 2017 at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Golden Gophers defeated the Fighting Illini 24-17. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

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CHAMPAIGN, IL – NOVEMBER 25: Garrett Dickerson /

Free Safety

Starter: Bennett Williams

There are some players who come into the Illinois football program and wow the fans. And then there is safety Bennett Williams.

Not only did Williams make seven starts as a true freshman and play in 11 games total, but he was one of the best young players in the nation. He even made the ESPN and Big Ten Freshman All-American teams.

Williams finished the 2017 campaign with 64 tackles, three interceptions and a forced fumble. He was one of the best players on the Illini roster and developed into a player who the NFL will have eyes on in the next few seasons.

There is no doubt in my mind Williams will be the starting free safety for the Illini next season. He is a great player who will only continue improving from here.

Backup: Harvey Clayton Jr.

There is some depth that is starting to build in the Illinois secondary. This is a good thing. Harvey Clayton Jr. helps add to that depth.

Clayton has experience at safety. He played in every game for the Illini last season and even had a start. The fact our backup defensive backs have starting experience is a big bonus for Illinois. Clayton will be ready to step in if anything happens to a starter.

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