Illinois football is making strides toward acquiring a talented defensive back from Florida. The current defensive backfield is solid, with a strong starting rotation expected to return in 2025, but bolstering this unit remains a priority. Bringing in a player like Tywan Cox would significantly enhance Aaron Henry’s defense.
Cox is a 5-foot-11, 165-pound safety from Northwestern High School in Florida. He is a three-star recruit, ranked as the No. 806 player in the class of 2025, the No. 69 safety in the nation, and the No. 105 player from Florida.
Currently, Cox is committed to South Florida, a commitment he made in late June. However, after receiving a scholarship offer from Illinois just over a week ago, his recruitment has gained momentum. This weekend, Cox will take an official visit to Illinois, which, along with the rapid development of his recruitment, puts the Illini in a strong position to secure his commitment.
Recently, a Crystal Ball Prediction has been made for Cox, with Jeremy Werner from 247Sports expressing a confidence level of six out of ten that Illinois will sign him. The Illini already have a solid group of defensive backs, and adding Cox would further strengthen their depth.
Under Bret Bielema’s leadership, the Illinois secondary has impressive depth, boasting 20 defensive backs on the roster, with only two being seniors, who rarely see playing time. Key players like Miles Scott, Xavier Scott, and Torrie Cox Jr. will return, allowing Cox the opportunity to develop his skills without immediate pressure to contribute significantly. By 2026, he could emerge as a key backup or even a starter.
Securing Cox would be a major win for Illinois. He is not just a solid recruit but a top-1000 talent, which is crucial for the program’s growth. The focus is on acquiring more top-tier recruits like him, as stacking talent leads to victories. Landing Cox would be a significant step forward in this endeavor.
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