For those who may have forgotten, Illinois basketball guard Ty Rodgers is still on the roster.
After redshirting the 2024-2025 season and missing all of this season due to a summer knee injury, Rodgers has not played an actual game for the Illini in about 700 days.
Throughout the season, Underwood has given bits and pieces to the media regarding his health and availability, but no timeline was ever given as to when Rodgers would return. And now, this late in the season, it begs the question as to whether a return is the right move.
Why a Ty Rodgers return makes sense for Illinois
Rodgers' return to the squad would bring roster versatility, and his play style would fit nicely with this core, further elevating this roster.
Adding a player like Rodgers into the mix would be incredibly beneficial come March. Moving towards a 9-man rotation adds an extra layer of depth and security, especially when considering how hard this team plays.
Providing another strong option off the bench would work well in keeping the rest of the roster fresh. To pair with that, Rodgers' playstyle seemingly fits perfectly with this roster.
Before the injury and redshirt, Rodgers was a solid defender who could rebound and add a couple of points. Another player like this would easily slot into this roster.
The DNA of this year's team is strong rebounding and defending, the reason why the Illini rank top 10 in rebounding and top 30 in KenPom's defensive efficiency. Rodgers would gel with this scheme and team very well.
Why a Ty Rodgers return doesn't make sense for Illinois
This late into the season, Rodgers' return could be a waste given the cost it would have on his eligibility and the way the roster is currently being utilized.
Playing this year would mean he is unable to apply for a medical redshirt this offseason, burning a year of eligibility. Given that next year's roster will lose two starters, Rodgers could likely slot into the role Kylan Boswell has played.
Having a player like that for extra years is incredibly valuable to the program. It essentially makes him a transfer portal addition whom the Illini grab for free.
Likewise, although he would fit the team’s playstyle, there seems to be no real room for Rodgers. With the rotation already set in stone, as is apparent by the Wisconsin game, where the Illini only played six players, it is likely Rodgers would barely see the court.
Not to say he is not a very skilled player, but Underwood seems to have his mind made up about who he does and does not trust.
Whether he should return this season or not is up for debate, but what is not is Rodgers' ability to impact games, be it this season or next. Whenever he returns, he will be welcomed by the coaching staff and fans alike.