Linebacker Makes Verbal Commitment

Illinois received their first verbal commitment of the year from an in-state linebacker/fullback prospect.

“I committed to Illinois,” said linebacker Russ Weil.

“I called coach (Ron) Turner earlier and the week and gave him my verbal commitment.

“I visited Illinois in April and I felt comfortable down there. I know a couple of guys on the team and it’s close to home.”

Weil, a 6-foot, 225-pounder, from Minooka, Illinois will be a three-year varsity starter for the Indians in 2003. Russ had 60 tackles, 24 tackles for loss and eight sacks as a junior. He also won a state wrestling championship in 2002.

Weil chose the Fighting Illini over Iowa. Illinois was the only school that had offered a scholarship.