Illinois football looking to build out the offensive line with in-state offer

Illinois football was doing some work on the recruiting trail on Wednesday.

While the transfer portal seems to be dominating the news headlines, the Illini coaching staff has also been out on the recruiting trail trying to secure top recruits for the future.

Illinois is looking to build out a solid class of 2025. As of right now, there are five commitments and we sit with the No. 50 class in the country. The Illini are also focusing on building the foundation with 2026 athletes as well.

On Wednesday, Gene Riordan took to social media to announce that he had received a scholarship offer from Illinois.

Riordan is a 6-foot-5, 275-pound interior offensive lineman from Hinsdale Central High School in Illinois. He isn’t rated or ranked just yet, but Illinois now joins Minnesota as the two power-five programs to have offered the talented in-state recruit.

Illinois football should always focus on building out the offensive line

With the class of 2026 a thought for down the road for most fans, one thing I know for sure is that Illinois should always have a focus on building the offensive line. So, I like this offer to Riordan.

I want offensive linemen who can move well, and that is what Riordan brings to the table. He is a good guard who can pull and get around the tackle to spring the running back. Riordan is nimble on his feet, and that is rare for someone his size.

Illinois loves to pull the guards. Snagging a player like Riordan in the future will help the program greatly. I think this kid has the potential to be pretty solid, and I am curious where he ends up being ranked in the state of Illinois. I imagine he lands in the top 15 among all state of Illinois football players.