5. AJ Pena – Edge/Outside Linebacker
The edge/outside linebacker position isn’t a huge priority for the Illinois football team, but when you have a player like AJ Pena showing interest, you have to pursue him.
Pena is a big-time transfer portal recruit. Coming out of Somerville High School in New Jersey, Pena was completely overlooked. He wasn’t rated or ranked by the recruiting sites, so he ended up at Rhode Island.
Each season, Pena continued to improve. He spent three seasons with the Rams and had his best campaign in 2024. This past season, Pena amassed 81 tackles, 12 sacks, and two pass deflections. It doesn’t matter what level you play on, that many sacks are impressive.
Pena entered the transfer portal, and Illinois immediately came in with a scholarship offer. We aren’t the only team that wants this kid, though. Wisconsin is also a big player.
The Badgers are actually getting an official visit from Pena this week. Illinois will get a crack at Pena next week, as he will be coming to Champaign.
I love that Illinois is pursuing Pena. His 12 sacks jump off the page, and having that type of pass rusher would be phenomenal on the defense. Illinois could always use more depth too.
Seth Coleman departed at this position, and that is a starter off the roster. Gabe Jacas is going to start at the edge role, and I think Jojo Hayden has a ton of potential. Alec Bryant is a nice option too. But those are the only players who have proven anything at this position.
Getting a player like Pena into the program would be huge. He is a big-time transfer portal option who could take our defense from good to great.