“They’re looking to create an immediate impression when the season starts.”
In 2011, high school standout Travis Frederick accelerated his football journey by enrolling early at the University of Wisconsin, joining Bret Bielema’s Badgers program for spring training. After graduating early and relocating from his hometown, he briefly returned for prom before immersing himself in college football preparations.
Bielema noted, “He was kind of the first one; it takes a special kind of kid to do this.” Frederick’s early commitment paid dividends, as he later became a first-round NFL draft pick in 2013 and went on to a seven-year career with the Dallas Cowboys
The college football season operates more like a continuous cycle, with its clear starting point in February and March during spring practices.
Among the 12 freshmen who chose to join Illinois’ program in the spring are QB Carson Boyd, WR Brayden Trimble, DB Xania Scott, and LB Grant Beerman. Trimble’s early move to Illinois wasn’t without challenges, particularly from his mother.
“She did not want Brayden to be here,” said Bret Bielema, Illinois’ head coach. “She wanted to enjoy that last semester with her son at home, and I tell the mom three things: they’re going to come home for graduation, prom, and any event that they need to be there for.”
Illinois sophomore QB Trey Petty also joined the team early in spring 2024 but missed the spring football game due to prom.
As early high school graduates, these freshmen face the challenge of adapting to a new environment, including a Big Ten locker room, coaching staff, and weight room, along with the broader adjustments that come with starting college life.
“The beauty of this approach is that by the time fall arrives, it’s their second go-around,” said Illinois offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. “The window to prepare them used to be much smaller and more difficult. Twenty years ago, freshmen arrived in August, but now it’s far more efficient to get younger players ready earlier.”
A key development for the future of Illinois football lies in the growing connection between freshmen Carson Boyd and Brayden Trimble.
“They’re always together, which is great. They’ve built a strong off-the-field rapport,” said Illinois offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr. “The two have developed a solid connection, with plenty of plays made between them.”
On defense, freshman Xania Scott has been making an impression with significant practice reps. He is the younger brother of Xavier Scott, who plays at nickel and safety for the team.
“That kid is incredibly intelligent,” said defensive coordinator Aaron Henry. “He’s picking up the playbook faster than any freshman I’ve ever seen.”
Although Illinois will not hold a spring football game in April, head coach Bret Bielema and his staff will utilize 15 practices to focus on establishing the program’s fundamentals.
“I try to collect their playbooks or notebooks about once a week,” said defensive coordinator Aaron Henry. “It might seem like grade school stuff, but it helps me see who is taking notes and how they’re taking them.”
A key priority for the coaching staff is identifying the most effective learning methods for each player, allowing them to quickly understand their young roster’s needs. While true freshmen often struggle to make an immediate impact during the season, laying a strong foundation during spring practices is essential for building a successful college football career.
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