Illinois football faced a setback on Saturday when backup offensive lineman Zach Aamland transferred to Big Ten rival Rutgers. Aamland entered the spring transfer portal two weeks ago and ultimately signed with the Scarlet Knights, according to On3.
Losing a player to the portal is always challenging, but it’s especially tough when that player transfers within the same conference. Aamland, who spent two seasons with Illinois but didn’t see any playing time, will now have the chance to face his former team when Illinois plays Rutgers on November 1.
Aamland’s decision to choose Rutgers isn’t entirely surprising. The offensive lineman grew up just 20 minutes from the Rutgers campus and had been recruited by coach Greg Schiano out of high school. After visiting the program again last Friday, Aamland signed with the Scarlet Knights the following day.
As a former three-star recruit, Aamland still has three years of eligibility remaining and is expected to compete for a starting spot at tackle for Rutgers.
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