Illini Still Searching For ‘Alpha’ Wide Receiver in Preseason Camp Practices

Only major question leading into the start of Illinois’ preseason practices for the 2025 season is who can emerge to replace Pat Bryant and Zakhari Franklin as outside wide receiver options.

By Matt Stevens- IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

July 31, 2025

CHAMPAIGN — Luke Altmyer is possibly the first person to admit and best person to describe the safety blanket of comfort to having a pair of experienced, talented receivers on the outside.

It’s not inaccurate to suggest Altmyer had a breakout campaign in 2024 because when things got sped up, complicated or difficult to identify while in the pocket . . .

 

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