Who’s Next? Illinois Freshmen Signal Callers to Watch For
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Today, I’m looking at some of Illinois’ top freshmen quarterbacks. These young men excelled throughout the 2023 season and showed a wide array of talents. They range from lightning-quick dual-threat prospects to deadly accurate pocket passers. These young men have…
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Continue ReadingToday, I’m looking at some of Illinois’ top freshmen quarterbacks. These young men excelled throughout the 2023 season and showed a wide array of talents. They range from lightning-quick dual-threat prospects to deadly accurate pocket passers. These young men have a very high ceiling and clearly have their best ball ahead of them. Apart from Trae Taylor Trae Taylor 6'2" | 175 lbs | QB Carmel Catholic (mundelien) | 2027 IL at Carmel, these young men have had a relatively slow recruitment for now. However, I think that could change very soon. Look for these guys to hit the weights hard, put on weight, and continue to grow this offseason.
As always, If you have someone you think I need to see, please DM them to me on Twitter at @hsfbscout!
Jayden Ellington Jayden Ellington 5'11" | 170 lbs | QB Althoff Catholic | 2027 IL 5’11” 165, Althoff
Jayden completed 71% of his passes and threw for 1,584 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2023. He’s a dynamic runner with speed, willingness, shiftiness, and balance. He’s a quality anticipatory thrower who gets the football out of his hands before his receiver is out of his break. When the protection breaks down, Ellington steps up into the pocket with his eyes downfield and can deliver second-level shots without setting his feet.
Jaylen Maners, 6’3″ 185, Fairfield
In 2023, Maners threw for 1,273 yards and 17 touchdowns. He’s a good-sized prospect who is comfortable throwing on the move and is quick and decisive on called RPOs. He’s confident, stands tall in the pocket, and has good pocket presence. If he can show he can stretch the field vertically, the interest will come quickly.
Trae Taylor Trae Taylor 6'2" | 175 lbs | QB Carmel Catholic (mundelien) | 2027 IL 6’1″ 160, Carmel
Trae got some varsity time as a freshman and showed a live arm, the ability to alter his arm slot at a moment’s notice, and has natural poise against the rush. He’s got a lightning-quick release and consistently places the football right on the numbers. His stock should rise quickly after taking the full-time reigns behind center.
Jameson Purcell Jameson Purcell 6'2" | 185 lbs | QB Maine South | 2027 IL 6’2″ 185, Maine South
Purcell played on the lower levels in 2023 but was impressive in his own right. This is a southpaw who places the football in stride and has excellent change of direction on the ground. He’s got plenty of arm talent, can add value in the quarterback run game, and shows consistent accuracy on level-three throws. Maine South has had a lot of talented quarterbacks come through their doors and it looks like Jameson could be the next one in line.