Sophomore WRs Making Noise Across Illinois

Eric Bergman December 5, 2025 @ 09:34 PM

[player_tooltip player_id='2063834' first='Jayden' last='Dau'], Momence Dau has been one of the most explosive young receivers in the state this season. He's a true vertical threat with the speed to win over the top and the toughness to finish plays through contact. Sitting at 816 yards already, he's built his reputation as a go-to target who can flip a drive with one catch. His early production is putting him on the map as a must-know 2027 playmaker.   [player_tooltip player_id='1642374' first='Jalen' last='Callaway'], Aurora Christian Callaway may be listed as an athlete, but his impact at receiver jumps off the screen. He's dynamic with the ball in his hands and creates chunk plays in space. His ability to turn short throws into big gains gives Aurora Christian a reliable spark whenever they need it. With over 700 receiving yards, Callaway is showing he has the skill set to be one of the most versatile offensive weapons in his class.   Jenner Pals, Effingham Pals has been absurdly productive in seven games, averaging more than 100 yards per outing. He's smooth, consistent, and rarely misses opportunities when the ball comes his way. Effingham leans on him to create separation and finish drives, and he's delivered all year. His combination of route running and strong hands makes him one of the cleanest sophomore receivers in Illinois.   Antwon Walker, Galesburg Walker is a rising name because of the big-play ability he brings to Galesburg's offense. He's averaging nearly 19 yards per catch and thrives when the ball is pushed downfield. Walker's size and athleticism show up after the catch, but he also flashes the body control needed to win in traffic. He looks like a breakout candidate heading into his junior year.   Will Schmidt, ICCP Schmidt is emerging quickly in a talented ICCP program. He's a reliable chain mover who can also pop the explosive plays when he finds a crease. His catch-and-run ability and strong feel for open space make him a natural fit in their offense. His stock is climbing each week.   Bentley Nicklin, Mater Dei Nicklin continues to grow into a dependable target for Mater Dei. He's confident working the intermediate areas and shows natural instincts for finding soft spots in coverage. His ability to make tough catches and keep drives alive gives him real long-term upside.

Jayden Dau Jayden Dau 6'0" | 160 lbs | WR/DB Momence | 2028 IL , Momence
Dau has been one of the most explosive young receivers in the state this season. He's a true vertical threat with the speed to win over the top and the toughness to finish plays through contact. Sitting at 816 yards already, he's built his reputation as a go-to target who can flip a drive with one catch. His early production is putting him on the map as a must-know 2027 playmaker.