Top 10 Illinois HS football players in Class of 2025
1. Iose Epenesa, DL, Edwardsville
As deep as Illinois’ senior class is this season, Epenesa stands alone at the top as a consensus top-50 prospect nationally in the Class of 2025. Epenesa, the younger brother of former Iowa standout and current Buffalo Bills pass rusher AJ Epenesa, will follow in the family’s footsteps as a member of the Hawkeyes after committing to play in Iowa City in mid-August. First, Iose will aim to finish his Edwardsville career strong after totaling 122 tackles and 15 sacks across his first three seasons with the Tigers. Last year, the 6-foot-4, 270-pound defensive lineman helped the Tigers to 10 wins with 31 tackles, eight tackles for loss and six sacks. Iose has also played basketball and competed in track and field at Edwardsville, further proving his all-around athletic ability. That combined with his strength up front makes him a top defensive prospect nationally.
