ST. LOUIS, Ill. (WCIA) – Illinois football added to its impressive 2026 class on Saturday.

The Illini picked up a commitment from composite four star athlete Jacob Eberhart.

According to 247 Sports, Eberhart is being actively recruited as a defensive back, even though he also played as a wide receiver and defender during his junior year at Kirkwood High School near St. Louis.

Composite rankings list the new Illini commit as the No. 4 player in the state of Missouri for the 2026 recruiting class.

Eberhart picked Illinois over four other finalists: Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Alabama. He becomes the Illini’s 23rd commit in the 2026 cycle.

Jacob’s father, Jason Eberhart, played defensive line at Illinois from 1997-2000.

It adds to a long list of Illinois football ties with the St. Louis area.

In June, Illinois dispatched four athletes from St. Louis to Busch Stadium for Illini Night. Additionally, Belleville native Nick Hankins, also a prospect for 2026, has pledged to join the Illinois team.