Illinois has made the state of California a priority in its recruiting strategy, and that has continued into the 2019 class with an offer to Menlo Atherton (Calif.) inside linebacker Daniel Heimuli.

The 6-foot-2, 215-pound four-star prospect was intrigued by the Illini offer.

“I wasn’t expecting it at the time, but it’s a blessing to be able to get an offer from a school in that part of the country,” Heimuli said. “It was cool, because I know someone that goes to Illinois - Bennett Williams. He’s from around this area, and he’s making a big impact out there. So hopefully I could do the same if that’s the path I choose.”