ST. LOUIS, Ill. (WCIA) – Illinois football added to its impressive 2026 class on Saturday.

The Illini picked up a commitment from composite four star athlete Jacob Eberhart.

Eberhart, listed generically on recruiting sites, is being recruited as a defensive back according to 247 Sports. He played both wide receiver and defense as a junior in high school, attending Kirkwood High School in the St. Louis area.

Composite rankings list the new Illini commit as the No. 4 player in the state of Missouri for the 2026 recruiting class.

Eberhart picked Illinois over four other finalists: Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma and Alabama. He becomes the Illini’s 23rd commit in the 2026 cycle.

Jacob’s father, Jason Eberhart, played defensive line at Illinois from 1997-2000.

It adds to a long list of Illinois football ties with the St. Louis area.

Illinois sent four St. Louis natives to Busch Stadium in June for Illini Night. Plus, Belleville native Nick Hankins (another 2026 prospect) is committed to Illinois.