Top Illinois Specialists in the Class of 2026
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<p><em>Two Power Five commits headline a strong group of kickers and long snappers.</em></p>
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<p>Specialists might not draw the spotlight, but they win games. Illinois' 2026 class features two of the best kickers in the country, plus a few others on the rise:</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1628253' first='Lucas' last='Tenbrock'] | PK | St. Charles North | Iowa State Commit</strong><br>At 6'6", 224 pounds, Tenbrock is an elite-level specialist with rare physical traits. His frame generates massive power on kickoffs and field goals, and he's proven he can perform under pressure. Already committed to Iowa State, he's one of the top-ranked kickers in the nation and a true game-changer on special teams.</p>
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<p><strong>Micah Drescher | PK | Hinsdale Central | Michigan Commit</strong><br>Drescher is another elite leg in the state. At 6'1", 188 pounds, he's technically advanced, with a repeatable motion and strong ball striking ability. Committed to Michigan, Drescher is known for his range and poise — a reliable, high-upside addition to the Wolverines' special teams unit.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1699892' first='Leo' last='Taylor'] | PK | Naperville North</strong><br>Taylor is a developing prospect with a lot to like. At 6'1", 165 pounds, he has good natural power and has shown the ability to drive the ball on kickoffs. With continued refinement, Taylor could rise quickly among 2026 kicking prospects.</p>
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<p><strong>Carter Holke | PK | Geneseo</strong><br>Holke is a clean ball striker who shows good rhythm and accuracy. At 5'11", 180 pounds, he's solid inside 40 yards and continues to build on his kickoff consistency. He's a dependable in-game option and could be a strong fit for a college looking for a steady presence.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1819284' first='Richie' last='Skinkis'] | LS | Nazareth</strong><br>Skinkis is one of the top long snappers in the class. At 5'9", 190 pounds, he's efficient, compact, and consistent with his snap velocity. He's a key part of Nazareth's special teams and should draw more attention heading into his senior year.</p>
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Two Power Five commits headline a strong group of kickers and long snappers.
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