Six Illinois Edge Rushers to Know in the Class of 2028

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The edge rusher position in Illinois' 2028 class features several prospects who are still early in their physical growth but already show traits that translate to quarterback pressure. This group blends length, motor, and upside, highlighting defenders whose best football is still ahead.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>David Emmart | DE | Lincoln-Way Central</strong><br>Emmart is a compact, relentless edge player who wins with effort and leverage. He fires off the ball quickly, stays engaged through contact, and shows strong backside pursuit. His motor gives him a chance to outplay his current profile as he continues to add strength.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1570778' first='Kristian' last='Chadick'] | DE | Carmel Catholic</strong><br>Chadick offers good size with developing power. He flashes an explosive first step, stays active with his hands, and shows the ability to reduce his surface when rushing the passer. Continued refinement of his rush plan could elevate his production.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1682118' first='Nate' last='Elsea'] | DE | Brother Rice</strong><br>Elsea plays with consistent effort and discipline. He maintains strong edge contain, works through contact, and competes through the whistle. His steady approach and improving technique provide a reliable foundation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Patrick Beranek | DE | Lemont Township</strong><br>Beranek owns impressive length with room to add mass. He shows natural bend for his size, pursues well from the backside, and has the frame colleges covet. His upside is tied closely to physical development and added power.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Andrew Sell | DE | Saint Laurence</strong><br>Sell is an active, high-motor defender who plays fast off the snap. He sets the edge with toughness and flashes counter moves as a rusher. His competitiveness keeps him around the football consistently.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Carmelo Santoyo | DE | Joliet West</strong><br>Santoyo brings quickness and energy to the perimeter. He accelerates well, pursues with urgency, and can threaten tackles with speed. As his body fills out, his pass-rush potential should rise.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This collection illustrates the range of edge talent developing across the state, from longer frame prospects to effort-driven rushers who win with urgency and technique.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->