Illinois may not be a state known for its high school football scene, but programs, especially up near Chicago, have played a vital role in shaping national title contenders.
The last few years, in particular, have seen some talented quarterback prospects come out of the state. This cycle in particular has two who have the potential to shine for the Power Four program they’re committed to.
Here’s a look at the top 10 players from the Prairie State in the 2027 class.
1. Israel Abrams, Montini Catholic (Arlington Heights)
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6-4
Weight: 187
Commitment: Miami
Football recruiting notes: The Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year last season, Miami landed a true weapon in Abrams. In 2025 he completed 69% of his passes for 4,072 yards and 40 touchdowns while also rushing for 10 touchdowns leading the Broncos to a state championship.
2. David Folorunsho, St. Patrick (Chicago)
Position: Defensive Lineman
Height: 6-3
Weight: 280
Commitment: Notre Dame
Football recruiting notes: Folorunsho’s a defensive force up front who totaled 55 tackles, 18 tackles for loss and five sacks in 11 games last season. He announced his commitment to Notre Dame on May 15.
3. Myson Johnson-Cook, East St. Louis
Position: Running Back
Height: 6-2
Weight: 235
Commitment: Auburn
Football recruiting notes: Johnson-Cook’s a big back who chose Auburn over Miami on April 25. Last season, he rushed for 1,341 yards and 20 touchdowns on 126 carries.
4. Jake Nawrot, John Hersey (Arlington Heights)
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6-4
Weight: 200
Commitment: Kentucky
Football recruiting notes: Nawrot was the definition of efficient last season for the Huskies. He completed 71% of his passes for 3,078 yards and 41 touchdowns while throwing only two interceptions.
5. Brock Williams, Libertyville
Position: Tight End
Height: 6-5
Weight: 210
Commitment: Texas
Football recruiting notes: Williams led the Wildcats in receiving last season, catching 44 passes for 596 yards and 11 touchdowns. He announced his commitment to the Longhorns on May 15.
6. Quentin Burrell, Mount Carmel (Chicago)
Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6-3
Weight: 175
Commitment: Michigan
Football recruiting notes: Burrell’s gone on a tear over the last two years, establishing himself as one of the best receivers in the country. Last year, he totaled 67 receptions for 1,139 yards and 16 touchdowns on the state’s top team.
7. Tavares Harrington, Mount Carmel (Chicago)
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6-3
Weight: 175
Commitment: Uncommitted
Football recruiting notes: Harrington caught the eye of several Power Four programs early and appears to be headed out of state for college. Notre Dame has remained heavily involved in his recruitment, but he currently has official visits scheduled to Georgia (June 5), Nebraska (June 12), and Alabama (June 19) over the summer.
8. Roman Igwebuike, Mount Carmel (Chicago)
Position: Linebacker
Height: 6-3
Weight: 220
Commitment: Uncommitted
Football recruiting notes: Igwebuike already looks like a college linebacker, and he’s keeping his options open going into the summer. Currently, he has official visits scheduled to Clemson (May 29), Notre Dame (June 12), and Tennessee (June 19).
9. Brayden Parks, Brother Rice (Chicago)
Position: Defensive Lineman
Height: 6-3
Weight: 305
Commitment: Uncommitted
Football recruiting notes: Parks played a pivotal role on a stout Crusaders defense, totaling 44 tackles, six tackles for loss and a pair of sacks. Notre Dame appears to be in a good position in his recruitment, as he’s visited South Bend six times already, including a March trip.
10. Raheem Floyd, East St. Louis
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6-2
Weight: 170
Commitment: Uncommitted
Football recruiting notes: Floyd played a pivotal role on a stout Flyers defense in 2025. He finished his junior season with 55 tackles and an interception in 11 games.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Illinois high school football recruiting rankings for 2027 class