BELLEVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — Recruiting the state of Illinois continues to be a big part of Bret Bielema’s mission with the Illini, and the latest four-star commit is proof.

Defensive back Nick Hankins Jr. chose Illinois over 26 Division I offers and plans to enroll early next winter to get ready to take the field at Memorial Stadium.

“Bring energy, bring a dog to the team,” said Hankins Jr. “[Head coach Bret Bielema] said I could do a lot of things, play offense, nickel safety corner, just be very versatile.”

Hankins Jr. emphasized his excitement to get in on the ground floor of what he calls “a school on the come-up,” like Illinois and hopes to be a versatile player for the orange and blue.