On Wednesday, May 21, Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema had a huge day of recruiting success, signing two of the top prospects out of Chicago: defensive lineman King Liggins and two-way athlete Nasir Rankin.
However, there was an important commitment that also took place on Wednesday, going slightly overlooked because of Liggins and Rankin's announcements.
Former JUCO star defensive back Donovan Turner, who played just one season for Long Beach City College, announced his commitment to Bielema and the Fighting Illini as well. Sure, Turner didn't have any stars in the transfer portal, but he did have collegiate experience, which the Illinois defensive secondary will sorely need in a year or two.
🆗🆒 pic.twitter.com/HZm3rmCVej
— Donovan Turner ! (@donnszn_) May 21, 2025
During his nine games for Long Beach CC, Turner earned the honor of being named to the SCFA All-Central League 1st Team All-Conference roster. Coming out of high school in 2022, Turner was rated as a three-star athlete.
Donovan Turner JUCO stats
- 9 games played
- 30 total tackles (15 solo)
- 1 tackle for loss
- 2 interceptions
- 4 pass breakups
- 1 block
When he announced his commitment on social media, Turner kept his message low-key, using emojis to say "OK, Cool."
Turner's announcement was the third of the day, following Liggins and Rankin, who both committed earlier in the evening. So far, Beliema has the No. 30 overall transfer portal class of 2025 and the No. 45 recruiting class of 2025 so far.
With Liggins and Rankin both committing to the Illinois Fighting Illini, Beliema's class of 2026 recruits moved up to No. 25 in the nation. Rankin, a two-way and two-sport athlete, is also expected to play basketball for the Fighting Illini under head coach Brad Underwood.