Sampleton's interest in Illinois is 'through the roof'

At 6-foot-3, 220-pounds, Chris Sampleton from LaGrange Park (Ill.) Nazareth Academy has the frame to play defensive end or even tight end at the next level.

Sampleton knows what it takes to win, after helping the Roadrunners take home two straight state championships. He is quickly becoming a hot prospect on the recruiting trail.

With three offers to his name from Wyoming, New Mexico and Nevada the interest from local programs is rising quickly.

“It just feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders to have the first couple,” Sampleton said. “It just makes me want to work harder and continue to prove myself.”

Among several others, Sampleton has picked up interest from Illinois and he camped with the Illini the past several summers.

"I have heard from Illinois, Western Michigan, Miami Ohio, Penn State, Michigan State, Brown, Iowa and Iowa State," Sampleton said.

The surprise hire of Love Smith as the Illini head football coach turned Sampleton's head.

"I believe that Illinois is going to make a big bang by bringing in such a high caliber guy," Sampleton said. "Being from my home state of Texas and knowing that he has coached in the state, he knows football."

And the change in his interest with the Illini, speaks to the respect that Sampleton has for the former Bears head coach.

"My interest in them was already high. Now it's through the roof. I look forward to talking with him soon," Sampleton said.