Illinois Football: Illini land former Missouri wide receiver Khmari Thompson

The Illinois football team received a big commitment for the future on Monday afternoon.

You can’t always land the big fish the first time around. Luke Ford is the prime example of Illinois coming back around and snagging the recruit they wanted to begin with. The Orange and Blue did that again on Monday when Khmari Thompson announced he will be heading to Champaign.

In a Twitter post, Thompson announced that he would be committing to Illinois. This commitment came exactly two weeks after Thompson announced his intentions to transfer from the University of Missouri. This is a big pickup for the Illini.

Coming out of Central Gwinnett High School and residing in Lawrenceville, Georgia, Thompson was a three-star recruit who was ranked as the No. 1011 player in the class of 2018 and the No. 148 wide receiver in the nation.

In his first season with the Tigers, Thompson managed to play in three games but then took a redshirt. He didn’t get a chance to place as a redshirt sophomore last season, though. Now, with three years of eligibility remaining, Thompson looks to make an impact with Illinois.

Where will Thompson fit in on the Illinois roster?

Adding depth in any form and fashion is a good thing. Thompson hasn’t played much at the college level, but he has run track, so he is quick. He has also been in a college training environment, so that puts him ahead of someone coming in from the high school ranks.

I love this addition for the Illini. Thompson won’t be eligible until 2021, but he could make an impact that season and into the future. I still have Brian Hightower – also a transfer – starting alongside Donny Navarro and Casey Washington. Behind them, I think there is room for Thompson to compete.

Illinois is building out their roster. I was nervous heading into the 2021 campaign, but I think Lovie Smith and his coaching staff are starting to settle those nerves. The future is looking brighter by the day.