Illinois Football: 5 transfer portal quarterbacks on my wish list for the Illini

Sep 17, 2021; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Bret Bielema looks on from the sideline against the Maryland Terrapins at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 17, 2021; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Bret Bielema looks on from the sideline against the Maryland Terrapins at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 5
Next
Oct 10, 2020; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange quarterback Tommy DeVito (13) passes the ball against the Duke Blue Devils during the second quarter at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2020; Syracuse, New York, USA; Syracuse Orange quarterback Tommy DeVito (13) passes the ball against the Duke Blue Devils during the second quarter at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Tommy DeVito – Syracuse – 5th Year

Another exciting option for the Illinois football team heading into the offseason is Tommy DeVito. This kid has a ton of experience but was dealt a tough hand at Syracuse.

The best season for DeVito was in 2019 when he threw for 2,360 yards, 19 touchdowns, and five interceptions. He had a 63.2% completion percentage that season as well. If he could bring that to the Illini, then this team would for sure go bowling.

For his career, DeVito finished with 3,866 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions for the Orange. I think the potential for him to finish his collegiate career strong is there for DeVito. He has the ability to put up solid numbers on the offensive side of the ball.

Much like Myles Brennan, there are some injury concerns with DeVito. He missed much of the past season with a leg injury, so that would need to heal before he takes over the starting job at Illinois.

I believe someone like DeVito would give this Illini offense some energy. Our running game could open up a lot of avenues for DeVito. He can get his pass-catchers the ball, which is something Illinois has been void of for years now.

Getting a player like DeVito would be great for the program. He has the experience, he played in a power-five conference, and he has good numbers. I am in.