Six IL DBs with Developmental Upside in the Class of 2028

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The defensive back position remains one of the deeper groups in Illinois' 2028 class, particularly among prospects still developing physically and refining their coverage skill sets. This group of middle-tier defensive backs shows traits that translate well long term, with versatility and football IQ standing out as common themes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1687843' first='Finn' last='Crotty'] | CB | Brother Rice</strong><br>Crotty is a competitive corner who plays with confidence and good spatial awareness. He stays patient at the line of scrimmage, reads route stems well, and shows a willingness to challenge receivers at the catch point. His technique and toughness provide a strong foundation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Naquan Griffin | DB | Crete-Monee</strong><br>Griffin brings length and physicality to the secondary. He plays aggressively downhill, supports the run well, and shows the ability to disrupt timing routes. As his coverage polish improves, his versatility becomes more valuable.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1052361' first='Alijah' last='Lewis'] | CB | Brother Rice</strong><br>Lewis is a smooth, athletic defensive back who moves well in space. He mirrors effectively, transitions cleanly out of breaks, and shows comfort in man coverage. His fluidity and reaction skills stand out on film.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Anthony Joseph | CB | Glenbrook South</strong><br>Joseph plays with discipline and good eye control. He stays square in coverage, keeps plays in front of him, and competes through the whistle. His consistency and attention to detail give him steady developmental value.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Nolan Inglis | FS | Naperville North</strong><br>Inglis shows good range and awareness on the back end. He reads the quarterback well, takes smart angles, and provides reliable support in coverage. His instincts and positioning make him a dependable safety prospect.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='791528' first='Christian' last='Cordova'] | SS | Mount Carmel</strong><br>Cordova is a physical safety who plays with urgency and confidence. He closes quickly downhill, embraces contact, and brings energy to the secondary. His toughness and effort level consistently show up on film.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->