Illinois coach praises transfer tackle Darrell Prater's impact

Illinois Fighting Illini's defensive line coach Jordan Thomas has highlighted the contributions of transfer tackle Darrell Prater from Jacksonville State. Prater, standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 300 pounds, has impressed during offseason workouts. He brings significant experience with 39 college games, including 63 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks last season. The Fighting Illini, preparing for their home opener against UAB, have bolstered their roster with several transfer players, and Thomas is focused on refining the defensive line before the season begins on September 3.

• 3:15 AMYahoo Sports — Transfer Tackle Impresses Illinois Defensive Line Coach Jordan Thomas