Illinois included in Top 6 for heavily-recruited 4-star LB out of Texas

Illinois is in the mix for a four-star linebacker out of Texas, who recently dropped his top six programs.

Wednesday, four-star linebacker and top 150 talent Kendrick Blackshire announced the top six schools he’s still considering. Illinois made the cut, along with Alabama, LSU, Texas A&M, Baylor and Oklahoma. According to 247Sports, Blackshire is listed as one of the top 150 overall players in the 2021 recruiting cycle.

I just want to thank everyone who has been in my corner I wouldn’t be able to be in this position if it wasn’t for y’all pushing me 🖤 and I also want to thank god for giving me the ability to play football ❤️ 🙏🏾👆🏾final 6 respect my decision 🦍 edit:@Hayesfawcett3 pic.twitter.com/hisa5swVra

— Kendrick Blackshire (@KendrickBlacks1) April 22, 2020

Blackshire has been heavily recruited during the 2021 cycle, receiving nearly 30 offers. Illinois has made a strong impression during this process and is the lone B1G team remaining in his slimmed down list.

Per 247Sports, Blackshire ranks as the No. 148 overall player in the 2021 class and is the No. 6 inside linebacker. He’s also one of the top 30 players out of Texas, coming in at No. 26.

Illinois’ 2021 class could use a significant boost, as the Fighting Illini have received just one verbal commitment and rank last in the B1G and 81st nationally. That lone pledge is three-star dual-threat quarterback Samari Collier.