Kevin Tyler signs with Illinois

The Illini have certainly put an emphasis on fortifying the offensive line with their 2020 recruiting class. Every position group needs depth, but you can never have too many linemen. So if you can add to that depth and continue the recent success of bringing in talented St. Louis recruits? It’s a no-brainer. Come on down, Kevin Tyler.

The 6-foot-5, 295-pounder is a three-star offensive tackle from Ritenour High School. Tyler is the 86th-best OT prospect nationally and the 24th-ranked player in Missouri, according to 247.

Tyler verbally committed to the Fighting Illini in late July, choosing Illinois over Power Five offers from Syracuse, Missouri, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Indiana, Purdue and Minnesota.

Successful Big Ten teams are able to control the line of scrimmage. The Illini have had mainly a run-first offense under Lovie Smith’s stewardship. If that’s to continue Illinois needs to keep getting bigger and stronger up front. Tyler already has a big frame and a knack for being a punishing run blocker. He would seem to be a redshirt candidate next season with the return of starting tackles Vederian Lowe & Alex Palczewski.

Look at some highlights of Tyler (#77) below: