3-star TE Cade Newman Becomes Illini’s Fifth Verbal Pledge in 2027 Class

2027 three-star tight end Cade Newman gave his verbal pledge while on his official campus visit in Champaign-Urbana on Saturday night.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

June 6, 2026

(Cover photo courtesy player's Hudl page)

The number of verbal commitments in the 2027 recruiting class for Illinois has now grown to five but once again has an out-of-state prospect.

After staying steadfast at four verbal pledges for the last month, three-star tight end Cade Newman from Ankeny (Iowa) Centennial High School gave his promise to Bret Bielema and the Illini football staff . . .

 

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