Next Up in Illinois: The Underclassmen Turning Heads

Eric Bergman April 14, 2025 @ 02:35 PM

[player_tooltip player_id='1196115' first='Lucas' last='Strang'] – Brother Rice – WR – Class of 2027 [player_tooltip player_id='1196115' first='Lucas' last='Strang'] is a smooth route runner with excellent body control and the ability to consistently get open. Standing at 6'1", he uses his length and timing to win 50/50 balls against defenders. Strang also shows natural hands, making tough catches look easy and rarely letting the ball hit the ground. As he continues to develop physically, he has the tools to become a go-to target in Brother Rice's passing attack.   [player_tooltip player_id='1346038' first='Jordan' last='Williams'] – Belleville East – DB – Class of 2027 [player_tooltip player_id='1346038' first='Jordan' last='Williams'] is a ball-hawking safety who thrives playing center field for Belleville East. He has a great feel for reading quarterbacks and tracking the ball in the air. Last season, he recorded two interceptions and is primed for a breakout sophomore campaign. At 5'10", 165 pounds, Williams combines quick instincts with physicality, making him a dangerous playmaker on the back end.   Zachariah Slaughter – Lincoln-Way East – WR – Class of 2028 Zachariah Slaughter is an emerging young talent in the Lincoln-Way East program. He stands out with his ability to create separation and make defenders miss after the catch. At 6'0”, 165 pounds, he already displays advanced footwork and strong hands for a player his age. Slaughter is definitely a name to watch as he continues to grow in one of Illinois' top programs.   [player_tooltip player_id='1150293' first='Cooper' last='Beaty'] – Plano High School – LB/RB – Class of 2028 [player_tooltip player_id='1150293' first='Cooper' last='Beaty'] is a versatile young athlete who makes a big impact on both sides of the ball. At 6'1”, 185 pounds, he has impressive size and speed for a freshman. As a linebacker, he shows physicality and a nose for the football, while on offense, he runs with power and vision. Beaty's upside is significant, and his development will be fun to follow in the coming years.

Lucas Strang Lucas Strang 6'0" | 160 lbs | WR Brother Rice | 2027 State IL – Brother Rice – WR – Class of 2027
Lucas Strang Lucas Strang 6'0" | 160 lbs | WR Brother Rice | 2027 State IL is a smooth route runner with excellent body control and the ability to consistently get open. Standing at 6'1", he uses his length and timing to win 50/50 balls against defenders. Strang also shows natural hands, making tough catches look easy and rarely letting the ball hit the ground. As he continues to develop physically, he has the tools to become a go-to target in Brother Rice's passing attack.