Former 4-star DB James Finley Transfers From NIU to Illini

James Finley, who started four games last season at safety as a first-year player for Northern Illinois, has signed to play at Illinois for the upcoming 2026 season.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

April 3, 2026

(Cover photo courtesy Yahoo! Sports)

CHAMPAIGN — Illinois has added a defensive back with multiple starts as a true freshman at a Mid-American Conference program last season.

James Finley, a 6-foot-1 and 183-pound safety, has been signed to play on the Illini’s 2026 roster after announcing his intention to enter the portal on March 25.

Finley, a . . .

 

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