The No. 20 Illini ended 2024 strong with a Cheez-It Citrus Bowl victory, and good news continues to come their way. On Jan. 4, senior offensive lineman J.C. Davis announced on Instagram that he would return to Illinois for one more year with the caption, “I GOT ONE MORE IN ME. #famILLY.”
The 6-foot-5, 320-pound New Mexico transfer had one year of eligibility left since he originally started at a junior college; after Illinois’ success this season, Davis will return for more action to boost his potential NFL draft stock.
Continuity is one of the best things for an offensive line, and the Illini are striving toward that. With Davis, Illinois’ linemen can grow stronger together and more consistent next season with all five starters returning. With the familiarity among one another and their communication with junior quarterback Luke Altmyer, Illinois’ offense in 2025 could do some incredible things.
Davis will enter next season with 37 consecutive starts under his belt. His run-blocking and pass-blocking skills put him on the 2025 Senior Bowl Watch List, and his ability to adapt to tough defenders will be of the utmost importance next season.
Additionally, his veteran presence and leadership will be vital to the Illini once again, as he only allowed two sacks in the last 25 games he played. He’s big, strong and experienced, and if the Illini loved him this year, they’ll love him again next year.
Get The Daily Illini in your inbox!
@tess_eken
