Top 10 Illinois HS football players in Class of 2026

5. Braeden Jones, DE, Mount Carmel

The Caravan posted an 11-3 record and won the Class 7A state championship last season behind a big year from Jones. The four-star prospect was named an all-conference performer and took home defensive lineman of the year honors. Jones received scholarship offers from several college football powerhouses, such as Auburn, Ohio State and Illinois, and ultimately committed to the USC Trojans. 

Craft Session @Braedenej99 #DLineTraining #PassRush #USCfootball pic.twitter.com/fRjkYU2V4v

— Josh Forney (@CoachJForney) July 24, 2025