JUCO offensive tackle pledges to Illini
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Illinois landed their third offensive lineman from the junior college ranks on Wednesday with a pledge from tackle Jordan Fagan from El Cajon (Calif.) Grossmont C.C.
The 6-foot-6, 280 pound Fagan said academics played a large roll in his college choice, and he plans to major in engineering.
"My biggest thing is that Illinois is the No. 6 engineering school in the country," Fagan said. "It's the best education that I had an opportunity to get."
A full qualifier coming out of high school in the San Diego area, Fagan will be a mid-year transfer and have four years to play three at Illinois.
Fagan in the sixth offensive lineman to commit to Illinois in the 2015 class, and the third OL from the JUCO ranks. He talked about what the Illini staff saw in him.
"They love my athleticism," Fagan said. "I'm a real athletic guy. I played basketball in high school. They like the technique that I bring to the table. Also my physicality and toughness."
Early playing time is available for Fagan with the Illini graduating tackle Simon Cvijanovich.
"They told me I can come in in January and compete for that starting spot at left tackle," Fagan said. "They said they really need a left tackle right now."
At 280 pounds, Fagan said he would like to bulk up some before the 2015 season kicks off, but he doesn't want to sacrifice any of his foot speed.
"I'm going to get in the weight room and get a lot stronger," he said. "The biggest thing is getting bigger without losing my quickness. If I can get to 295 and be strong and still have my quickness, that's probably as big as I will get."
Offensive line coach Tom Brattan and head coach Tim Beckman were the main coaches recruiting Fagan to Illinois. Fagan was on campus this past weekend in Champaign for his official visit.
"I loved the facilities, and the football team has a family atmosphere," Fagan said. "When I was there on Saturday, I did tour of the engineering school."
With the addition of Fagan, the Illini's 2015 class now sits at 18 commits. Illinois landed two other prospects over the weekend in Florida linebacker Julian Jones and JUCO offensive lineman Connor Brennan.