The Fighting Illini have secured a 2025 commitment from Jershaun Newton, a three-star quarterback from Clearwater Central Catholic High School in Florida. Newton, younger brother of former Illini star and current Washington Commander Jer’Zhan “Johnny” Newton, announced his decision on social media.
Standing at 6-foot, 205 pounds, Newton is ranked by 247Sports as the No. 51 best QB in the 2025 class, the No. 91 Florida recruit for his class and the 669th overall recruit in the nation. He chose Illinois over offers from numerous Power Five programs including Ole Miss, Florida State, Miami, Indiana and Mississippi State.
As a junior, Newton showcased his skills by completing 65% of his passes for 2,084 yards, 14 touchdowns and six interceptions. He also rushed for 1,020 yards and five touchdowns and contributed defensively with six tackles-for-loss and four sacks as a linebacker. He led his high school team to back-to-back State championship berths.
Newton is set to continue the family legacy at Illinois, following in the footsteps of his older brother Jer’Zhan. As a junior in 2023, Jer’Zhan was a team captain, Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and a consensus All-American. He led the team with 52 tackles, 8.5 TFLs and 7.5 sacks, earning numerous accolades including a finalist for the Nagurski Trophy. Jer’Zhan was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft by the Washington Commanders.
Jer’Zhan’s success sets a high bar for Jershaun as he begins his journey with the Illini.
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