Illinois football has secured a commitment from three-star in-state tight end Logan Farrell. Farrell, previously committed to North Carolina, has flipped his pledge to the Illini. This is a significant addition to the Illini’s 2024 recruiting class.
Three-star tight end Logan Farrell from Arlington Heights (Ill.) Hersey announced on Monday that he’s flipped his commitment from North Carolina to Illinois after a weekend visit to Champaign. Farrell had been committed to the Tar Heels since November 2023, but Illinois was the first Power Four program to offer him and played a significant role in his recruitment from the start. The Illini clearly kept the momentum going, with coaches visiting his high school earlier this month during their off week.
Ranked as the No. 17 senior prospect in Illinois by Composite rankings and No. 30 by 247Sports, Farrell stands at No. 36 among tight ends nationally in the Composite rankings, with 247Sports placing him at No. 61. He also holds notable Power Four offers from schools like Cincinnati, Duke, Louisville, and Syracuse.
Unfortunately, Farrell suffered a torn ACL during a 7-on-7 event with his high school team in June and underwent surgery in July. Despite this setback, his junior season stats were impressive: he tallied 29 receptions for 425 yards and nine touchdowns, while his sophomore year saw him make 34 catches for 403 yards and 10 touchdowns. Exciting times ahead for this rising star!
Why It Matters:
Farrell’s commitment marks him as the second tight end from in-state to switch to Illinois this fall, bolstering a crucial position for the team’s future. Alongside Grant Smith, a three-star tight end from Maroa Forsyth who flipped from Illinois State last month, Farrell helps enhance Illinois’ receiving options in a room that has leaned more towards blocking. While Tanner Arkin has recently stepped up as a pass catcher, adding Farrell and Smith creates more dynamic threats.
What It Means:
Illinois is riding high after a surprising 6-1 start this season, which is making a big impression on recruits, especially local talents. Coach Bielema has laid a solid foundation, allowing the Illini to promote their success and stability—qualities that stand out even more compared to struggling programs like North Carolina. Expect the Illini to be proactive in flipping more prospects from the Class of 2025. They’ve recently welcomed four-star Colorado DB commit Alex Graham, four-star Auburn DB commit Donovan Starr, and three-star Western Michigan OL commit JJ Hirdes on campus.
How He Fits:
While Farrell may not be the tallest tight end, he brings physicality as a blocker, much like Arkin. He’s also a smooth athlete and capable pass catcher, showcasing agility to make plays after the catch. Farrell can operate effectively as an in-line tight end or occasionally take on H-Back responsibilities. With the potential to add strength, he’ll be a versatile player that complements a taller pass-catching option like Smith beautifully. Illinois offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. often utilizes 12 personnel, and these two Class of 2025 tight ends offer varied skill sets to keep defenses on their toes. Additionally, the Illini recently gained a walk-on commitment from two-star Mahomet-Seymour tight end prospect Trey Peters, a 6-foot-6 pass catcher with FCS offers.
