Top 10 Illinois HS football players in Class of 2026

10. Nick Hankins, CB, Belleville West

Despite a 3-6 record with the Maroons last season, Hankins stood out as the team captain. The four-star recruit demonstrated exceptional speed with his 6-foot-1, 185-pound frame, resulting in 26 D-I offers. Hankins plans to play for the Illinois Fighting Illini following his senior campaign. 

Hometown Hero🦸‍♂️ #Committed #ILL @nickhankins113 pic.twitter.com/SdiCobNpWz

— Desmond Chapple (@digitaldezz) June 20, 2025