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5 key Illinois football players to see a massive improvement in 2024

It could be a pretty good season for the Illinois football team, but these key players need to see a massive improvement to help win games

By Rees Woodcock

Oct 21, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Kaden Feagin (3) scores a touchdown during the second half against the Wisconsin Badgers at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 21, 2023; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Kaden Feagin (3) scores a touchdown during the second half against the Wisconsin Badgers at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports / Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
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Kaden Feagin – Running Back

I can honestly not tell you the last time I was this excited to see what a running back can do on the football field. I know Chase Brown had a big season in 2022, but I don’t remember feeling this much excitement and having these expectations for Brown.

Kaden Feagin came into his freshman season as one of the highest-rated recruits in the class of 2023. He was Illinois’ third-highest snag in the 2023 class, checking in as a four-star recruit who was inside the top 375 in the country.

From the start, I was impressed with Feagin. He competed with Reggie Love III for snaps and went toe-to-toe with the multi-year veteran. I fully believe Feagin was the reason why Love transferred out and went to Purdue. The future at running back goes through Feagin.

As a freshman, Feagin finished with 95 carries for 438 yards and two touchdowns. He averaged 4.6 yards per carry. I think all of those numbers are about to take a huge jump

The biggest reason why I think there will be a huge boost in numbers for Feagin is that he is the man now at running back. Love is gone, and the biggest contender for snaps is Aidan Laughery. I think there could be thunder and lightning with Feagin and Laughery at times, but this is Feagin’s backfield.

I also believe the Illinois offensive line has improved. JC Davis was one of the best offensive linemen in the country last season, and landing him out of the transfer portal was huge. Zy Crisler should improve. I am also excited to see what Kevin Wigenton II and Melvin Priestly can do entering the program from the transfer portal.

Feagin has all of the pieces to have a great season. Don’t be shocked, if healthy, he hits the 1,000-yard mark in 2024.

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