Versatile Batavia Product Looking to Earn a Bigger LB Role at SIU
Whelpley is a 6-foot-2, 230-pound redshirt freshman linebacker who already proved he can help on special teams, appearing in all 12 games in 2025 and logging three tackles and a half-TFL for Southern Illinois. What makes him interesting is the rare two-way background from Batavia High, where he was the Bulldogs’ leading rusher and receiver in 2023 and a First Team All-DuKane pick, suggesting toughness, vision and athletic flexibility that can translate well to linebacker. He looks like a high-motor developmental fit with upside if SIU wants length, physicality and a player who can grow into more defensive snaps.[1]
