Much like any other program, the Illinois football team is sure to see the transfer portal contain familiar names.
With the recent addition of quarterback Trey Petty to the transfer portal, this snowball is only starting to roll. However, despite these losses, the Illini are in a spot where transfers out are no longer a major threat to their success.
This season was an early indication of that. The loss of running back Josh McCray to Georgia proved not to have a great impact on the running game, especially given the immense production he had in 2024.
Recruits coming in and players already on the Illinois football roster will be able to make an impact
Bret Bielema has already shown a lot of admiration for his 2026 recruiting class, commenting on how exceptional they can be and how immediately they can make an impact. So long as he gives them the keys, they should be able to drive a fun, young squad next season.
Likewise, strong recruitment over the past few years has led the Illini to find program staples. With a running back room that could stay intact and highly touted young players on defense like Grant Beerman and Tanner Heckel, the team has options who know the system well to plug in for meaningful moments.
Finally, transfer portal acquisitions will offset those that are lost. Illinois is now one of the better places to play in the country with a strong coaching staff and a budding winning culture.
It has become an enticing option for transfers, as is evident by some strong producers in Luke Altmyer and Hudson Clement, to name a few. Finding good players who can provide experience and play important snaps should be easy for the coaching staff.
While transfer portal season can be a stressful time for all college football fans, multiple factors contribute to Illini fans being somewhat at ease.