Illinois football just landed two key recruits from the 2026 class — and both could be program-changing additions. In today’s episode, I break down what tight end Will Vala (Downers Grove North) and running back Nelsyn Wheeler (Omaha, NE) bring to the Illini offense and why their commitments show Bret Bielema’s recruiting machine is on fire.
From Vala’s versatile skill set and early playing potential to Wheeler’s explosive track speed and SEC-level offers, these two could reshape the tight end room and running back rotation for years to come. I also talk about what this means for other big-time targets like JC Anderson and Mack Sutter — and why Illinois fans should be excited about the #11-ranked class in the country.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment your thoughts — and let me know which player you want me to spotlight next!
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for daily Illini basketball and football coverage!
📌 Subscribe for daily Illini content!
🎧 Available on YouTube, Apple, Spotify & more.
👍 Don’t forget to hit LIKE & SUBSCRIBE!
🎯 Goal: 5,000 subs before kickoff vs. Western Illinois
📲 Follow Sunny on X: @talkillini
Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!
Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com
FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267
NEW ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/99EVYtPH
Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV
Watch Me Record Live on Tik Tok: https://t.co/QvIn1UqJkE
Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social
Article Referenced:
For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.
Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.
FanDuel Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)