‘Edgy’ Tim: Who are the area’s top uncommitted senior football recruits?
With the 2025 IHSA football season just a few weeks away from kickoff, here are some of the top Class of 2026 uncommitted names to watch this season in the Daily Herald coverage area.
Matthew Gipson, QB, Grant
Gipson (6-foot-0, 170 pounds) will be a multi-year starter for the Bulldogs this season. Gipson, an impact player and leader in his tenure under center, has added several offers and roster spot invitations including from UW Whitewater (Division III), Judson (NAIA) and Illinois Wesleyan (Division III). Expect more schools to look closely at Gipson's first three games on video this fall.
Jack Nolan, OL, Hersey
Nolan (6-foot-4, 240 pounds), who also competes in basketball and track and field, added a recent offer from St. Thomas, an FCS program, along with an offer from Division II power Grand Valley State. Nolan also camped this summer with Buffalo and Fordham. He’s been in contact with Northwestern, NIU and Old Dominion.
J.T. Padron, QB, St. Charles North
Padron (6-foot-4, 205 pounds) has transferred from St. Charles East to crosstown rival St. Charles North for the 2025 season. Padron has impressive size and physical tools and also possesses a strong and accurate arm. Injuries limited his 2024 season but he is now healthy. His addition to an already strong North Stars lineup will bring college looks this early fall. Padron has already drawn offers from UW Eau Claire, DePauw and several other Division III and NAIA level programs.
Trenton Walker, WR, Nazareth
Walker (6-foot-3, 190 pounds) could make a strong argument as being the highest ranked name that remains uncommitted in the Class of 2026 in Illinois. Walker has offers from the likes of Western Michigan, Northern Illinois, Miami of Ohio, Central Michigan and Temple. He’s also drawn attention from various Power 4 and FBS programs. Walker has impressive length and reach along with good speed and hands. Look for Walker's recruiting to ramp up again this early fall.
Owen Yorke, RB, WW South
Yorke (5-foot-11. 195 pounds) is coming off a strong 2024 season for the Tigers. His combination of size, speed and power has drawn the attention of colleges from multiple levels. Yorke has roster offers from several Division III powers including North Central College, UW Whitewater and Mount Union. Yorke also camped this summer at Northwestern, Cornell and Illinois State.