By Kedric Prince - Sr. Recruiting Analyst

December 10 2025

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois is already pushing forward with its 2027 recruiting class, and the search for its next quarterback continues to draw good attention. With several talented high school signal callers already in the fold at Champaign and others emerging across the country, the Illini are preparing for life after one of the program’s all-time greats, Luke Altmyer.

Among the key early pieces in that plan is 2027 commit Kamden Lopati, a 6-foot-3 quarterback from West High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. Lopati, ranked the nation’s No. 12 quarterback and Utah’s No. 3 overall recruit, remains a priority not just for Illinois but for other programs still hoping to sway him.

Lopati didn’t reveal which schools continue to reach out, but he said he keeps his message straightforward. "I make it very clear how good Illinois is to me, and they leave it alone," he said.

His junior season came to a close with West finishing 11-2 and falling in the state semifinals. "We finished the season 11-2, lost in the semis, but I think I did well," he said.

What drew college programs to him early was his standout performance as a sophomore. Lopati threw for 3,050 yards and 25 touchdowns, showcasing the arm talent and composure that would elevate his recruitment.

In October, he earned Salt Lake County High School Player of the Week honors after a dominant outing against Jordan High School. He completed 13 of 17 passes for 349 yards and six touchdowns, adding 60 rushing yards to complete the statement performance.

As for why Illinois fits so well, Lopati pointed to the environment the staff has built. "The family aspect they have, I want to get back out there, but I have to figure it out with my family. For now, I try to watch them play as much as I can."

He added that Illinois continues to involve him in building the future of the program. "I normally reach out to the recruits they want me to, I think it's pretty easy for me to talk to other players and build a relationship with them," he said.

Looking ahead, Lopati isn’t ready to predict where his path will ultimately lead, but he knows whose example he hopes to follow. "I don't know what the future will hold, but I most definitely could see myself doing what Luke Altmyer did at Illinois."

With Lopati’s commitment solid, Illinois has a clear direction at quarterback for its 2027 class. He’s steady, focused, and handling the process with maturity as the program continues to build. As the Illini look ahead, having a talent like Lopati in place gives them a strong starting point for the next chapter.

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Email: KedIlliniGuys@gmail.com