Ked's Recruiting Roundup: Illinois Lands NIU Transfer QB Ethan Hampton

By Kedric Prince - IlliniGuys Director of Recruiting

December 19, 2024

CHAMPAIGN, IL. — Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema added to his quarterback room today when he received a commitment from Northern Illinois transfer Ethan Hampton.

After initially committing to Wake Forest just days ago, Hampton changed his mind following the resignation of head coach Dave Clawson and announced his decision to join the Fighting Illini today.

Hampton is Illinois’ second commitment from the transfer portal this season. Earlier this week, the Illini secured Leon Lowery Jr., a 6-foot-3, 252-pound outside linebacker.

Illinois' plan is to maintain quality depth at all positions, trying to make sure injuries do not ruin next season. Having an experienced backup quarterback is crucial, as demonstrated last year when starter Luke Altmyer was injured during the Minnesota game. Backup quarterback John Paddock stepped in, sealing the victory and leading Illinois to late-game touchdowns in November games.

Hampton fits this strategy. The 6-foot-3, 216-pound redshirt junior from Aurora Christian High School brings valuable experience. Over his career with the Huskies, he amassed 2,568 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions. This past season, he threw for 12 touchdowns and reduced his interceptions to six, showcasing his growth as a quarterback.

Illinois continues to add its roster, trying to get prepared to handle the challenges of the 2025 football season.

 

Follow me on Twitter @KedPrince4 

email: KedIlliniGuys@gmail.com

 

Podcasts

May 30 - Hr2 - S4Ep42 - Illini Recruiting, NBA Draft, Caitlin Clark & More

Listen

May 30 - Hr1 - S4Ep42 - FB & BB Contracts, FB & Golf Update & Brian Barnhart

Listen

May 23 - Hr2 - S4Ep41 - French Open, Indiana Pro Hoops & Softball

Listen

May 23 - Hr1 - S4Ep41 - Illini FB Recruiting, Golf and Track

Listen

High School Recruiting Takes the Spotlight - #482

Listen

May 16 - Hr2 - S4Ep40 - Chicago Sky, ACC Issues & Northwestern Stadium

Listen

May 16 - Hr1 - S4Ep40 - Coaching Contracts, NBA Draft, Football & Golf Updates

Listen

Bielema and Underwood Earn Contract Extensions - #481

Listen

May 9 - Hr2 - S4Ep39 - Saban, Podziemski & White Sox Struggles

Listen

May 9 - Hr1 - S4Ep39 - Illini Golf, Adkins Golf Club & Illini Recruit JC Anderson

Listen

May 2 - Hr2 - S4Ep38 - Kentucky Derby and NFL Draft Wrap

Listen

May 2 - Hr1 - S4Ep38 - Stojakovic Selects Illinois

Listen

Andrej Stojakovic Selects the Fighting Illini - #480

Listen

Apr 25 - Hr2 - S4Ep37 - Illini Spring Football with Matt Stevens

Listen

Apr 25 - Hr1 - S4Ep37 - Illini Hoops, Golf & Bears News

Listen