Junior defensive back Xavier Scott announced his return to Champaign for the 2025 season on Instagram Sunday afternoon. Scott captioned his post, “Letʼs make this one special. (hands held together emoji).”
The announcement came five days after the Illini’s victory at the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl and one day after senior offensive lineman J.C. Davis announced that he would also return next season.
Scott’s season began strong after his electric performance against Kansas, which earned him the National Defensive Player of the Week. In that matchup, he finished with eight tackles, one forced fumble, two interceptions and a pick-six. Throughout his junior season, Scott made a total of 49 tackles, all but six of which were solo tackles.
The Florida native played a key role in the Illini’s defensive success this season with much recognition, including a Phil Steele All-America honorable mention. He was also a Paycom Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist and was even named to the AP All-Big Ten First Team. He will continue this elite play style into 2025, along with his younger brother, freshman defensive back Xanai Scott.
Xavier Scott’s return brings momentum to the Illini’s defense under Corey Parker, who finished his first season as the defensive backs coach.
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