2026 Specialists to Know: Kickers

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Special teams often go overlooked, but the kicking game can completely swing the outcome of a contest. Illinois' 2026 class has several developing legs worth noting. Here are six specialists starting to make their mark.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Devin Miller – Washington HS</strong><br>At 6'3, 185 pounds, Miller brings size and leg strength to the kicking game. He has the frame and power to grow into a consistent long-range option, and his mechanics are improving with reps. Miller has the upside to become one of the stronger kicking prospects in the state.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1219586' first='Jasmine' last='Bisping'] – Richwoods HS</strong><br>Bisping is a unique talent at 5'3, 135 pounds who continues to develop consistency as a placekicker. Her work ethic and accuracy in the short-to-mid range have made her a reliable option. As her leg strength grows, Bisping could carve out an important role for Richwoods.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1815594' first='Sean' last='Sample'] – Providence Catholic HS</strong><br>Sample is a technically sound kicker at 5'11, 145 pounds who shows good rhythm and control in his approach. He's efficient in his steps and keeps his kicks on line. With added strength, he has the potential to become a reliable scoring option from deeper ranges.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Matt Reynolds – Collinsville HS</strong><br>Reynolds, a 5'10, 150-pound kicker, is developing into a steady specialist for Collinsville. He demonstrates accuracy in PAT and shorter field goal situations, and his consistent form provides a strong foundation to build upon. Continued strength work will expand his range.<br><br><strong>Noah Sur – Fenwick HS</strong><br>Sur is a developing 5'11, 185-pound kicker who shows a combination of leg strength and accuracy. His mechanics are smooth, and he's capable of putting solid distance on kickoffs. Fenwick has a promising specialist in Sur, with upside to grow into a college-level prospect.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->