Illinois loses commitment from 3-star DB prospect hours after firing Lovie Smith
Illinois could be in for a rough National Signing Day after firing coach Lovie Smith on Sunday.
The Illini have lost the commitment of 3-star defensive back Joriell Washington. He announced the decision a few hours after Smith’s firing was announced by Illinois:
Thank you to the University of Illinois, Coach Lovie Smith and Staff for the opportunity to play the game I love at the next level but after Conversation with my family I will be reopening my recruitment. God has a plan for us all and I know that he has one for me. Thanks.
— Joriell Washington ¹ ⁰ (@JWashing10n) December 13, 2020
“Thank you to the University of Illinois, Coach Lovie Smith and staff for the opportunity to play the game I love at the next level but after conversation with my family I will be reopening my recruitment,” Washington said in the note. “God has a plan for us all and I know that he has one for me. Thanks.”
According to 247Sports Composite rankings, Washington was the No. 106 safety and the No. 1,226 overall player in the class of 2021.
Despite the relatively low ranking, his offer list is solid. Washington has reportedly received offers from Iowa State, Boston College and Oregon, plus a few high-potential Group of 5 programs.
Washington is listed at 6-foot-2, 178 pounds and hails from Fort Myers, Fla.
Illinois’ 2021 recruiting class is currently ranked No. 74 nationally and No. 13 in the Big Ten, per 247Sports. The Illini have 14 commitments.
The early National Signing Day period begins on Wednesday, Dec. 16.