Illinois football secures a major commitment from Javari Barnett, a three-star running back from Tampa, Florida, who previously committed to Alabama but has now returned to the Illini. This marks a significant win for the teams recruiting efforts, as Barnett is a highly-rated player in the 2026 class. On the same day, Illinois also flipped Micah Smith, a four-star offensive lineman from Florida, who had originally committed to UCLA. These flips highlight a strong recruiting day for the Illinois program, with Barnett being one of thirty players who have signed with Illinois so far during the current signing period.

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