Illinois DB Des Straughton brings size, recruiting pedigree, and untapped upside
In the 2026 season, Des Straughton is a sophomore defensive back for Illinois at 6-foot, 210 pounds, and he already earned attention as a three-star recruit with offers from several Power Five programs. He has not yet played in a game, so the appeal is projection: a big-bodied DB who fits a physical Big Ten profile, arrived with strong recruiting credibility, and drew praise for impressing Illinois coaches in camp. If you want a developmental defensive back with size, toughness, and room to grow, he’s a name to watch.
