Thomas Brunner brings Power-conference experience and a 6-4 frame to Western Illinois’ front
Brunner is a long, developmental defensive lineman with Power-5 seasoning from Wisconsin, where he appeared in two games in the 2022 season after time at Northern Illinois, giving Western Illinois a size-and-systems fit who has already been exposed to higher-level competition.[3][4] He entered college as an under-the-radar recruit, so the appeal is less about splashy stat lines and more about upside, length, and the potential to grow into a disruptive edge/line role with coaching.[8][5] If you want a projectable DL who has been through a tougher football environment and can add depth with upside, he’s worth a look.[3][4]
