Illini offer a B1G one for Acfalle

With an offer this week, Illinois put themselves in strong position to land 2-star cornerback David Acfalle from Trussville (Ala.) Hewitt-Trussville.

“They are extremely high on my list,” Acfalle said about the Illini.

So far, Acfalle (5-foot-11, 190-pounds) is somewhat under the radar. But a trip to his school to watch him in action at a spring practice convinced assistant coach Garrick McGee that Acfalle is a Big Ten player.

Others showing strong interest so far include Southern Miss and Fresno State. There’s little doubt that the Illinois offer was a game-changer for Acfalle, however.

“It’s my first big Power 5 conference offer, so I’m really thankful for them to give me the offer,” Acfalle said. “The Big Ten is a great conference and I’m really considering them.”

Acfalle said he hopes to make it up to Champaign for a visit this summer. He will also be active on the camp circuit in his home state of Alabama.

According to Acfalle, Illinois coaches were impressed by his combination of athleticism and physicality.

“My coach was telling my how Illinois really liked my film,” he said. “They like my speed. I ran a 4.31 on a laser. I’m pretty quick, and they like how physical I am on the field. I’m not afraid of contact.”

On his high school team, Acfalle plays a hybrid role, lining up at nearly every position in the back seven.

“They call me the utility man,” Acfalle said. “I play outside linebacker, corner, and safety. And I’m going to be a return man this coming season.”