Illinois football flipping a recruit from a blue blood always feels good

Bret Bielema and the Illinois football team may have just stolen a gem from the Alabama Crimson Tide on National Signing Day.

This past season, there was a major lack of a running game in the Illini offense. They had trouble gaining yards on the ground as a unit, ranking No. 100 in the country with 1,574 total rushing yards.

Illinois was looking for answers in the backfield, with Ca'lil Valentine and Kaden Feagin both failing to surpass 600 yards on the ground. But after National Signing Day, it looks like they have found a possible replacement to help give their current backs a run for their money.

Tampa Bay product Javari Barnett adds intrigue to Illinois backfield

Javari Barnett, a three-star running back from Tampa Bay Tech, has been on Illinois' radar for the longest time. The Florida product was originally committed to the program back in April of this year, but ended up flipping his commitment to the University of Alabama two months later.

It was a rough time to be an Illini fan, with one of the best running backs in the country heading to the bright lights of Tuscaloosa. But yesterday, we saw the coveted tailback flip his commitment yet again, turning his attention back to the navy and orange.

Barnett is a very intense running back who was ranked No. 37 and No. 38 in the country at his position by ESPN and Rivals, respectively. In his senior year, his big highlight performance was when he rushed for 160 yards in week one against Florida's defending 7A state champions.

He is a very intriguing back who has a chance to be a big part of Bielema's offense. According to Andrew Ivins of 247sports, my two favorite ways to describe Barnett would be;

“Flashy “big back” that has dealt with injuries, but one that has a chance to be a workhorse on Saturdays with his temp and power.”

“Must stay healthy, but could crack the rotation early in college, especially if he masters pass protection.”

What does this mean for the Illini?

This is a special player who has a chance to be the lead back in an offense that desperately needs it. The backs that Illinois has right now haven't set themselves apart from the rest of the pack. They haven't stepped up to the plate and made the backfield their own.

Barnett, when he arrives, should help change that. His downhill running style and ability to find openings with his elusive quickness will make him a perfect upgrade to this Illinois offense. The only real issue that he brings is his history of injuries.

Sure, he could be moving back to Illinois because of the Crimson Tide bringing in five-star recruit Ezavier Crowell. But you know what? We'll take it! Bring us Barnett, and let's keep this program growing.