CHAMPAIGN — Rehiring Mike Bellamy is already paying off for Illinois football.
On Monday, Chicago Marist receiver Jadon Thompson, one of the top prospects in the state, made a commitment to Illinois. In large part because of Bellamy's efforts.
"Before (Bellamy) came to Illinois, he talked to Jadon and started to develop that relationship," Marist coach Ron Dawczak said. "As soon as he was hired to be on staff at Illinois, he made it a priority to come and see Jadon and continued to strengthen that relationship.
"I think Jadon liked him as a person, trusted him and is looking forward to working with him the four years he's in college.