Illini Kickoff Countdown: The Linebackers
Summary
Drew Pastorek previews the 2026 Illinois Fighting Illini linebacking corps, analyzing departures like Malachi Hood and Jojo Hayden. He highlights holdovers James Crutes and Ish Kante, while spotlighting transfers Robert Edmondson and Will Holmes. Pastorek predicts sophomore Grant Bierman will emerge as a star, with freshmen Caden Bennett and Cameron Thomas also expected to contribute significantly.
Topics discussed
Intro: Kickoff Countdown and Linebacker Group Overview
Sponsor Message: Liddyville.com Apparel
Notable Departures: Hood, Hayden, and Others
Holdovers: Crutes, Conte, Brown, and Moragin
Breakout Candidate: Grant Bierman's Potential
Incoming Transfers: Edmondson and Holmes
Freshmen Spotlight: Caden Bennett
Freshmen Spotlight: Cameron Thomas
Freshmen Spotlight: Jacob Alexander
Freshmen Spotlight: Tony Williams and Jalen Stewart
Summary: Group Outlook and Listener Feedback
Outro: Next Episode on Defensive Backs
Listen ad-free on Castria