Illini true freshman Grant Beerman is already earning snaps for Illinois and shaping up as an impact linebacker of the future
Illinois on SI is providing detailed scouting reports on key players for the Illini football team’s 2025 roster. Below is our evaluation of freshman inside linebacker Grant Beerman. Additional reports will be added as other contributors emerge throughout the season. To see scouting reports on other Illinois players, search online or explore our projected depth chart.
Grant Beerman | Inside Linebacker | Freshman | No. 33
Hometown: West Chester, Ohio
High School: Lakota West
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 230 pounds
Scouting Report
Beerman is a physically imposing linebacker with the athleticism of a running back. His combination of speed and agility allows him to quickly attack the line of scrimmage, making him a constant threat to disrupt plays in the backfield. His size and strength help him shed blockers, close running lanes, and pressure the quarterback effectively. Known for his relentless effort, he plays every snap at full speed, forcing offenses to always account for his presence.
His versatility makes him even more dangerous. Despite his size, Beerman can cover running backs in pass defense, close gaps quickly, and limit big plays. His speed and awareness allow him to track the ball and create turnovers, whether by recovering fumbles or intercepting tipped passes. Even as a freshman, his ability to influence the game in multiple ways—run defense, pass rush, and coverage—marks him as a rare talent with the potential to become a long-term defensive cornerstone.
Experience
Beerman played high school football at Lakota West in Ohio under coach Tom Bolden, where he became a three-year letterwinner and one of the state’s top defensive talents. In his senior season, he recorded 103 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, two sacks, three pass breakups, an interception, and a forced fumble. A multi-sport athlete, he also competed in basketball and track and field, highlighting his explosiveness and overall athleticism.
As a true freshman, Beerman has quickly made his presence felt. Enrolling early in January 2025, he immediately drew attention for his athletic ability and maturity. He has already shown glimpses of the high-motor, disruptive linebacker he is expected to develop into.
Media highlights
What they’re saying
“Grant Beerman… I’ve been coaching a long time and have worked with inside linebackers throughout my career. He’s likely one of the most talented linebackers I’ve ever recruited,” Illinois coach Bret Bielema said ahead of the Illini’s Week 4 matchup at Indiana, where Beerman is expected to see playing time on defense.
2025 outlook
Beerman entered the 2025 season expecting to play a supporting role behind a seasoned and battle-tested linebacker unit. Some even anticipated he might redshirt to preserve a year of eligibility and develop more gradually. Instead, he has fast-tracked his progression. After just nine months on campus, Beerman has impressed the coaching staff enough to earn early playing time and display the talent that made him such a highly regarded recruit.
Physically, he already possesses the tools to compete—and potentially excel—at the college level. How quickly he adapts to the pace and demands of the game will determine whether his role continues to expand this season. If his development stays on track, Beerman could provide valuable depth in 2025 and emerge as a cornerstone and future leader of Illinois’ linebacker corps in the coming years.
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