James McCourt has been one of the few bright sides of Illinois’ disappointing season so far, but the fifth-year senior now has one of his potential replacements. Will McManus, a highly touted recruit from Hun School in New Jersey will join the Illini as a preferred walk-on.

At the 2021 National Scholarship Camp, McManus scored 28 points on field goals and 114 points on kickoffs. He was able to hit difficult field goals into the wind as well, and coaches reported that his kickoffs will continue to develop positively going forward. 

McManus will join high school teammate Owen Anderson at Illinois. Anderson committed to the Illini as a tight end. Although Caleb Griffin has been waiting quite some time to be the starting kicker, there will certainly be a battle between them come training camp. 

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