Illinois Lands Another Wide Receiver Through the Transfer Portal

Illinois State transfer Eddie Kasper signs with the Illini, adding depth to the receiving corps.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:18pm

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Illinois has added more depth to its receiving corps by signing Illinois State transfer Eddie Kasper on Thursday. Kasper, a graduate transfer with one year of eligibility remaining, had 137 receptions for 1,198 yards and 3 touchdowns over 41 games in four seasons with Illinois State.

Why it matters

Illinois has lost several key receivers in the offseason, including go-to target Hank Beatty and portal departures Alexander-Capka Jones and Mario Sanders II. Signing Kasper helps replenish the Illini's receiving corps as they look to build on a successful 2025 season.

The details

Kasper is a 5-foot-10, 160-pound slot receiver who excels at getting out of his breaks, has good hands, and is capable of making the first man miss. He's also a solid blocker for his size. Kasper's best season came two years ago when he caught 52 passes for 440 yards and a touchdown. In 2025, he finished with 36 receptions for 322 yards and a touchdown, helping Illinois State reach the FCS national championship game.

  • Kasper signed with Illinois on Thursday, March 19, 2026.
  • Illinois State's 2025 season ended with a loss in the FCS national championship game.

The players

Eddie Kasper

A graduate transfer wide receiver who spent the first four years of his career at Illinois State, where he racked up 137 receptions for 1,198 yards and 3 touchdowns in 41 games.

Bret Bielema

The head coach of the Illinois football team, who has been working to retool the Illini's receiving corps in the offseason.

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What’s next

Illinois' first game of the 2026 season is on Saturday, September 5 against UAB. The kickoff time for that game will be announced at a later date.

The takeaway

By signing Kasper, Illinois has added more depth and experience to its receiving corps as it looks to build on a successful 2025 season. Kasper's versatility as a slot receiver and punt returner could make him a valuable addition to the Illini's offense and special teams.