CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – For the second year in a row, Illinois will need new pass-catchers to step up.

The Illini graduated Casey Washington and Isaiah Williams after the 2023 campaign.

After the first week of the 2024 season, it seemed like Malik Elzy might play a significant role in compensating for the loss of the duo. Elzy managed two catches for 51 yards and a touchdown in the season opener against EIU. However, as the season progressed, he only caught two more passes.

Now, Illinois is once again gearing up for the season after losing its top two wide receivers. This time, it’s Zakhari Franklin and Pat Bryant whose production Bielema’s teams aim to replace.

So, could Elzy have more games like the the week one outing of his sophomore campaign?

“When he walks in the room, you’re going to be like, ‘Okay, there’s a guy,'” Bielema remarked, referencing Elzy’s impressive performance in a recent scrimmage. “I think we’re ready to make a big jump… I’m super excited to see him get back out there. I believe he could be a guy poised to make a big leap.”

Bielema says the growth, for the 6-foot-2 junior, starts with the coaching at his position.

“I give a lot of credit to his relationship with his coach. I think he and [wide receivers coach Justin] Stepp have connected on a high level,” Bielema stated. “It’s been enjoyable to watch him grow.”

Elzy played in nine games as a freshman in 2023, catching four passes for 77 yards.

Bielema mentioned that Elzy has been dealing with a minor hamstring injury, but this has only increased his eagerness to return and make plays. The injury is not expected to extend into the season. Click here for more health updates on Illinois football.

Additionally, Bielema highlighted two other returning players when discussing the wide receiver room on Tuesday: Hank Beatty and Collin Dixon. Beatty recorded 294 receiving yards as a junior in 2024, including 90 in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. Dixon achieved 264 receiving yards as a redshirt freshman in 2024.