Illinois Fighting Illini name 2026 football captains
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 12:34 AM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026
The Illinois Fighting Illini have announced their 2026 team captains under coach Bret Bielema. The roster includes four returning players and two transfers from other Big Ten programs. Key offensive selections are quarterback Katin Houser, running back Aidan Laughery, wide receiver Collin Dixon, and offensive lineman Jake Renfro. Defensive backs Matthew Bailey and Xavier Scott round out the captain selections. This leadership group is expected to guide Illinois into the new season.
- •Illinois names six captains for the 2026 season.
- •Katin Houser, Aidan Laughery, and Collin Dixon among the offensive leaders.
- •Defensive backs Matthew Bailey and Xavier Scott represent the defense.
- •Jake Renfro transfers from Wisconsin to bolster the offensive line.
- •Leadership expected to support a winning campaign for the Fighting Illini.
- 12:34 AMYahoo Sports — Illinois Football Announces 2026 Team Captains
"Coach Bret Bielema and the Fighting Illini have selected six players to lead the team into the 2026 season.
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