Three-star defensive end plans Illinois visit

The Illinois staff was on the road recruiting last week, including a stop in Phoenix (AZ) to check on 3-star defensive end Odua Isibor.

Defensive line coach Mike Phair made the trip west to see Isabor, a 3-star prospect from St. Mary’s High School. Isabor took notice of Phair at his practice.

“It was really cool seeing him there,” Isabor said. “ Illinois believes I can make a big difference on the team as a playmaker on the defensive side of the ball.”

The No. 32 weak-side defensive end in the nation, Isabor holds offers from USC, Oregon, Arizona, Texas A&M, and numerous others.

With Illinois graduating four starters on its defensive line, Isibor likely sees an opportunity to see the field early. The Illini are definitely in the mix for his services and he plans to visit.

“Illinois has a really good chance right now,” Isabor said. “I plan to get over there after my season, and they really make me feel like they value me as a person and as a player.”

Isabor says he has built a good relationship with Phair.

"Coach Phair is very kind to me and he shows me what it feels like to be a player at Illinois," Isabor said. "He makes me feel like I would have a second home at Illinois.”

Another factor in the Illini’s favor is the NFL coaching experience on the staff.

“That’s a very impressive group of guys they have there,” Isabor said. “I think it would be amazing experience. I have so much to learn, and it would be a golden opportunity to learn from the best.”