2028 Defensive Backs Flying Under the Radar in Illinois

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2028 class has some high-end defensive back talent at the top, but there's a deeper group starting to emerge across the state. These are the players who may not have the early spotlight yet, but bring the length, athleticism, and versatility that can translate at the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are several 2028 defensive backs worth knowing.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1052308' first='Kaylen' last='Williams'] – Decatur MacArthur (6'1”, 175)</strong><br>Williams has good length and a frame that fits the position well. He moves fluidly and has the tools to develop into a consistent playmaker in the secondary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1368256' first='Mason' last='Marable'] – Brother Rice (6'0”, 175)</strong><br>Coming from a strong program, Marable has solid size and plays with confidence. He's a steady presence that continues to develop.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1598476' first='Logan' last='Kondziolka'] – Sandburg (6'1”, 185)</strong><br>Kondziolka brings a strong build and good size for the position. He projects as a physical defensive back who can match up well.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1688291' first='Pierre' last='Ray Jr.'] – Richards (6'1”, 185)</strong><br>Ray has a well-built frame and the kind of size that stands out at defensive back. He has the tools to be effective both in coverage and in run support.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Javonte Williams – Wheaton St. Francis (5'11”, 160)</strong><br>Williams is a lighter defensive back, but shows the type of athleticism and quickness that can translate well as he adds strength.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2140330' first='Connor' last='Crowley'] – Downers Grove North (6'2”, 180)</strong><br>Crowley brings length and range. His size alone makes him an intriguing prospect with plenty of upside as he continues to develop.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Tyrell Johnson – East St. Louis (6'1”, 180)</strong><br>Another defensive back coming from a strong program. Johnson has good size and athletic traits that point to long-term potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2133181' first='Zen' last='Cambric'] – Homewood-Flossmoor (6'1”, 170)</strong><br>Cambric has a long frame and moves well. As he continues to fill out, he could take a big step forward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1280045' first='Micah' last='Stevenson'] – Brother Rice (6'1”, 180)</strong><br>Stevenson checks the boxes physically and plays in a competitive environment. A name that could continue to rise with exposure.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1052361' first='Alijah' last='Lewis'] – Thornwood (6'0”, 170)</strong><br>Lewis has a balanced frame and solid athletic profile. He fits the mold of a defensive back that can develop into a reliable contributor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1687842' first='Jack' last='Badke'] – Brother Rice (5'9”, 165)</strong><br>Badke may not have elite size, but brings toughness and likely production. These types of players consistently find ways to impact games.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2114373' first='Jamari' last='Evans'] – Mt. Carmel (5'10”, 155)</strong><br>Evans is still developing physically, but shows the kind of movement skills that translate in the secondary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2140331' first='Landyn' last='Morrow'] – Mt. Zion (5'11”, 160)</strong><br>Morrow has a solid build and room to grow. A steady prospect who could continue trending upward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1902831' first='Triston' last='Wesley'] – Champaign Central (6'0”, 160)</strong><br>Wesley has good length and an athletic profile that stands out. As he adds strength, his upside increases.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1530895' first='Donovan' last='Wells'] – Benet (5'10”, 155)</strong><br>Wells is another developing defensive back with quickness and the ability to grow into the position.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->