Illinois took more than a few hits in fall camp when it came to injuries, but the biggest might be the newest transfer, Jayshon Platt, who so far has missed the first two games of the season. When news of Platt's injury came out, it was unknown exactly how long he would be out, but head coach Bret Bielema just gave Illini fans a positive update.
Bielema said that while Platt has been improving on the injury front, he still won't be ready for the Illini this week vs. Southern Illinois, and it's unlikely he will be available for the Illini's Big Ten opener vs. Ohio State. It looks like Platt could be ready in Week 5 when Illinois takes on Purdue at home.
"I don't think Jayshon will be with us this week, or possibly next week, but the week after that we got a chance," Bielema said.
The latest on the injury front for #Illini LB Daniel Brown and WR Jayshon Platt:
— Glenn Kinley (@glenn_kinley) September 17, 2026
-A chance Brown could go this week, but would be in limited capacity - "Very good chance him being back for Ohio State."
-Platt OUT this week, sounds unlikely for next week at Ohio State -- "But… pic.twitter.com/kqjSAsxOIl
There was a little more good news, with Bielema giving an update on linebacker Daniel Brown, who might play in a limited capacity on Saturday but has a good chance to be fully back against Ohio State. This will be a big help to an Illinois defense that needs a lot of help, especially when it comes to stacking and getting stops.
Jayshon Platt's return could help open up the Illinois offense
The Illinois offense really hasn't been the issue so far this season for the Illini, as new QB Katin Houser seems to have a good handle on things. However, right now, the offense feels like it runs through Ca'lil Valentine and Collin Dixon.
By far, Dixon has been Houser's favorite target this season with 17 receptions for 236 yards and five receiving touchdowns, which is tied for the national lead. At some point, a defense will take away Dixon, and other guys will have to step up. Hudson Clement is the WR2 for the Illini, but Platt will open the offense up vertically.
Platt's speed is what made him such a high-profile transfer, not only as a receiver but as a kickoff and punt returner as well. Platt is able to stretch the field and open up the long ball for the Illini, but without him, it is only Dixon out there, with Clement living in the middle of the field.
The Illinois offense has looked good, but definitely could be better, and especially with the struggles the defense has right now, putting up a lot of points can only help the Illini.
Hopefully Platt can return soon, but until then, it will probably continue to be the Dixon show for Illinois.
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