A strong week on the recruiting trail as translated to a great week in the transfer market for Lovie Smith and Co.

On Thursday, Illinois received a commitment from USC defensive end and former five-star prospect Oluwole Betiku Jr., who will be utilizing a graduate transfer. He gave his pledge to the Illini following an official visit over the weekend.

Betiku made his announcement publice via Twitter on Thursday.

“Words can’t describe how excited I am to be a part of the Fighting Illini football team,” Betiku wrote. “I can’t wait to get to work.”

Betiku will be immediately eligible for the 2019 season and is expected to compete instantly for a spot at defensive end. He will have two years of eligibility remaining.

Last season, Betiku utilized a redshirt season while suffering from an injury. In two years at USC, he played in 14 games but totaled just two tackles.

According to 247Sports’ transfer rankings, Betiku ranks No. 35. Earlier this week, Illinois received three commitments in the 2020 class, two of which were four-star athletes.