Illini host 4-star defensive end
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With home-state schools Miami (Fla.) and Florida State in hot pursuit, Illinois will have to fend off stiff competition to land 4-star defensive end Own Carney.
The Illini took a positive step in their pursuit of Carney over the weekend, hosting him and two of his high school teammates for an extended visit.
According to Carney, the vibe he got from the coaching staff was the best part about the trip.
“The visit was great,” Carney said. “I got a lot of attention and a lot of love from the coaching staff. I met coach Lovie for the first time. He’s a great man, and I could see myself playing for him.
“The way the coaching staff was, they have a really nice bond and great atmosphere for their players.”
A fast rising prospect this summer, Carney participated in the Rivals Five-Star Challenge. He’s known as a top speed rusher off the edge. Offers are in from Florida State, Miami (Fla.), LSU, and numerous others.
Tallahassee, Fla. native Thad Ward, the Illini running backs coach, is the lead recruiter for Carney.
“Me and Coach Ward have a very good relationship,” Carney said. “Ever since he offered me a couple of weeks ago, our relationship has grown. I probably talk to him the most out of any coach that’s recruiting me.”
Carney made the trip to Illinois with two of his Miami Central teammates, 4-star wide receiver Carmoni Green and running back Kywon Smith. Both hold an offer from the Illini, and Green is a priority recruit.
Illinois graduates five defensive linemen following the 2016. It’s the top position of need on the recruiting trail, and Carney has the ability to play right away.
The chance for early playing time at Illinois isn’t lost on Carney, who said his athleticism is what coaches like most about him.
“I can bend, I can run, and I have a good motor,” Carney said. They also like my football IQ, my long body, and my frame.”
The trip to Illinois was the last unofficial for Carney. The next step is for Carney to name the schools that will get an official visit, and the Illini are obviously hoping to make the cut.
“I have a top group of schools, but I don’t want to post it yet,” Carney said. “I’ll be posting my official visits on Twitter in the next couple of weeks. I’m going to take either four or five.”
The plan is for Carney to take his official visits, and then make a final decision after the high school season.
“I’m going to commit in December,” Carney said.