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Illinois Football: Early Illini projected depth chart for 2018

By Rees Woodcock

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)
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 – SEPTEMBER 29: Illinois Fighting Illini fans are seen in the tailgating area before the game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium on September 29, 2017 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

Offensive Guard

Starter: Alex Palczewski

I was surprised by the rise of offensive lineman Alex Palczewski last season. He was a solid recruit coming out of high school but did a great job on the football field for the Illini.

Palczewski ended up starting in the final 11 games for the Illini after missing the first one with an injury. He impressed the coaching staff that much to make him a starter as a true freshman.

I think Palczewski will continue being a starter for the foreseeable future. He did a solid job on the offensive line last season and will be looked upon to continue his dominance in 2018. I am excited to see how he develops throughout his career.

Backup: Adam Solomon

A solid backup to Palczewski in 2018 is going to be Adam Solomon. He had a chance to play in five games which included one start last season.

Having a backup with some playing experience bodes well for the Illini. They haven’t had depth on the offensive line like this in a while. Having Solomon handle the backup duties is a good thing for this offense.

Backup: Zeke Martin

Zeke Martin is another good option if Lovie and Luke Butkus have to look at a backup to help fill in for some snaps. He ended up playing in five games and started one last season as well.

Martin continues being a nice piece depth wise for the Illini. He will continue improving and may end up seeing some snaps this year.

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