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Four-Star DT Jihad Ward Commits To Illinois

HUGE commitment for Timmy Becks and the Illini.

By Jack Cassidy
Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports

Tim Beckman waited until the dark of night to pull in his biggest commitment of the offseason: JUCO DT Jihad Ward.

JIHAD WARD, DT, 4-star

HIGHLIGHTS

Ward is both massive in rankings and stature. In rankings, he's a four-star recruit, who chose Illinois over offers from Tennessee, Washington, and West Virginia. In stature, he's a monstrous 6-foot-8, 285 lbs. Good heavens.

Ward currently stands as Illinois highest rated commit. He's also the sixth JUCO player in a Tim Beckman recruiting class that has filled out nicely of late, especially on the defensive side of the football. Get excited, Illini. There's some quality D-line play waiting for you just on the other side of the offseason.

Recently extended offensive coordinator Bill Cubit was the leading recruiter for Ward, who said he felt a connection with the Illini coach. Here's Ward's quote on his commitment, via Rivals.

"I felt the love when I first got there on my visit," Ward said. "I spoke to my mom about it, and she said go somewhere where you are comfortable, and where they need you. I just can't explain it. I feel so good about myself right now."

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