Top 10 Illinois HS football players in Class of 2026

6. McHale Blade, DL, Simeon

Blade is a four-star recruit and began his high school career with the Hillcrest Hawks. He recorded 22 tackles, five tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in his sophomore year, which was shortened by a hamstring injury. Blade transferred to Simeon ahead of his junior year, but has yet to play a game with the Wolverines due to an ACL tear he suffered while at Hillcrest. Still, he is one of the most sought-after prospects in the state and has committed to the Michigan Wolverines to continue his football career.

Scary Hours @McHaleBlade #MichiganFootball #PassRush #DLine pic.twitter.com/v6aW8FZOmF

— Josh Forney (@CoachJForney) July 24, 2025