Recruiting has been a roller coaster for the Illinois football fans over the years, and that won’t ever change.
When the Illini have a top 20 recruiting class, as we have right now for 2026, there is always a thought in the back of the mind that wonders if a recruit is going to back away and go elsewhere. We had that just in the past couple of weeks with a running back flipping to Alabama.
On Friday, recruiting anxiety was cranked up a notch when Illinois commit Michael Clayton II posted on social media that he had received a scholarship offer from Colorado.
The Buffaloes, led by head coach Deion Sanders, have a lot of power. They have a certain gravitas that can attract recruits, so having them now get into the game for Clayton can send fans down a certain path.
Illinois fans can relax. On Sunday morning, Clayton confirmed with the Writing Illini that he is locked in with the program.
“I’m definitely appreciative of every coach who takes the time to evaluate and offer me. Obviously, Coach Deion has accomplished so much in the game of football, so it’s always a blessing to receive that type of recognition. However, I am fully locked with Illinois and trying to bring a Big Ten Championship to Champaign!”
With that, Clayton also confirmed that there haven’t been any talks or plans of a visit to Colorado despite the recent scholarship offer.
Michael Clayton II has plans for the fall and spring when it comes to onboarding with the Illinois football program
Even though Clayton has been committed since 2024, Illinois hasn’t let up on the recruitment of the star quarterback, and why would they? Clayton is a three-star recruit who is the No. 781 player in the class of 2027. He also has roughly 33 scholarship offers, most of which are from massive programs.
“I speak with Coach Art (Sitkowski) and Coach (Barry) Lunney all of the time. I look forward to when we’re in the same room, learning and getting coached up by them.”
Clayton doesn’t plan on being a stranger when it comes to Champaign during his senior year. He will be around checking out the program and seeing what should be multiple sold-out games in 2025.
“I will definitely come up for a game or two in the fall. I haven’t decided on which ones yet, but I can’t wait to see Memorial Stadium sold out and rocking for our guys!”
It is going to be important for the Illini to win this fall, as there will be a lot of recruits' eyes on the program. Some of these recruits will also be signing in December and enrolling early. Clayton is one of those players.
Clayton was able to confirm that he is signing in December and will be joining the program in January. This will enable him to get started and learn the playbook. He will also be able to participate in spring ball, which will help his development greatly.
So, Illini fans, if anyone was worried that Clayton might be enticed by the Louis life, don’t worry, he is committed to Illinois through and through. The future is bright in Champaign.