Big Athletes: Tight End / Front-Seven Prospects in IL 26 Class

<!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shane Diericx – Wheaton North (LB/TE)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Diericx is one of the most productive two-way players in Illinois' 2026 class. He totaled <strong>68 tackles</strong>, <strong>6 tackles for loss</strong>, <strong>6 turnovers</strong>, <strong>2 sacks</strong>, along with <strong>8 receptions for 90 yards and 2 touchdowns</strong> on offense. Whether crashing downhill or getting open as a tight end, Diericx plays with toughness and versatility that's hard to miss.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1575307' first='Nick' last='Hachigian'] – Maine South (OLB)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hachigian had a huge season for the Hawks, recording <strong>71 tackles</strong>, <strong>17 tackles for loss</strong>, <strong>6 pass breakups</strong>, <strong>5 sacks</strong>, <strong>1 forced fumble</strong>, and <strong>2 fumble recoveries</strong>. He brings a relentless motor off the edge and the ability to disrupt both the run and pass game. Expect his recruiting attention to pick up with another year of production.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ja'Cory Brown – Belleville East (TE/OLB)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Brown is a raw athlete with a ton of upside. At 6'6", he has the frame and natural tools to develop into a mismatch tight end or rangy outside linebacker. Still early in his development, but the ceiling is sky-high. He's one of the more intriguing long-term prospects in the class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lamari Hall – Oswego East (TE/DE)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hall is a hybrid defender and tight end with a physical play style. He holds a Division I offer and has shown flashes as both a pass catcher and disruptive edge presence. With his athletic build and aggressive mentality, Hall is poised to make even more noise in 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->