Orange and Blue News spoke to freshman linebacker Grant Beerman at Illinois football Media Day on Tuesday. CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois added a major piece to its future defense with freshman linebacker Grant Beerman, a four-star recruit from Lakota West High School in West Chester, Ohio. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 220 pounds, Beerman combines elite size […]
Orange and Blue News spoke to freshman linebacker Grant Beerman at Illinois football Media Day on Tuesday.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois added a major piece to its future defense with freshman linebacker Grant Beerman, a four-star recruit from Lakota West High School in West Chester, Ohio. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 220 pounds, Beerman combines elite size and speed.
His athleticism and versatility make him a fit at multiple linebacker spots, whether in coverage, rushing the passer, or stopping the run. Illinois coaches are impressed by his ability to cover ground quickly and his natural instincts for the game.
“At that size, he can run like you can never believe,” Illini linebacker coach Archie McDaniel said. “He’s super athletic, high football IQ, and he’s a great teammate. He has a presence about himself. He doesn’t really seem like a freshman”.
Beerman arrives in Champaign after flipping his commitment from Purdue in November 2024. A decorated prep standout, Beerman was a four-star recruit according to Rivals. As a senior, he totaled 103 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and two sacks.
One of the most highly-regarded defensive recruits of the Bret Bielema era, Beerman could push for early playing time. He will likely be a backup this year to senior middle linebacker Dylan Rosiek.
Category: General Sports
