McMillen Is a Physical, High-IQ Interior Anchor for Illinois
TJ McMillen profiles as a sturdy, competitive center with real power in the trenches: EA Sports lists him at 6'3", 295 with strong marks for strength, toughness, and blocking, including 85 strength and 81 impact blocking in the 2026 ratings[1][2]. Illinois trusted him in key snaps as a freshman, and reports from his first start note he helped the Illini protect the quarterback and keep the run game on schedule against Purdue, while also drawing praise as a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree[3][18]. He looks like a reliable fit for a team that wants intelligence, durability, and a physical tone-setter at center[3][6].
