
Rising Purdue LB Transfer with Proven Tackling Pedigree from Illini Days
Jojo Hayden, a 6-2, 245-lb junior linebacker who transferred to Purdue after a breakout 2025 sophomore season at Illinois (26 tackles, 1.5 TFLs, 1 fumble recovery in 11 games, including 7 vs. USC and 5 with a FR at Purdue), stands out for his explosive high school dominance (92 tackles, 9 TFLs senior year at state champ East St. Louis) and rapid college ascent from redshirt to reliable rotational defender. His four-star recruiting hype, consistent Big Ten production, and physicality make him a high-upside fit for teams needing intense, ball-hawking LBs—watch him thrive in Purdue's defense in 2026.





