Illinois Football 2025 Scouting Report: Punter Keelan Crimmins
Keelan Crimmins, a transfer from Purdue, is poised to be one of the top punters in the Big Ten this season. As part of Illinois’ 2025 roster, we’ve compiled a detailed scouting report on the senior punter. More reports on key Illini players will be added throughout the season as additional contributors emerge. For scouting reports on other Illinois players, check the projected depth chart or search online for more insights.
Keelan Crimmins | Punter | Senior | No. 40
Hometown: Spotswood, Australia
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 225 lbs
Transferred from: Purdue, Mississippi State
Preseason Honors: Athlon Preseason All-Big Ten Fourth Team, Phil Steele Preseason All-Big Ten Fourth Team
Scouting Report
At 24 years old, Crimmins is a strong, athletic punter who brings an impressive background in Australian rules football and cricket. Though punters aren’t typically asked to make tackles, Crimmins is more than capable as a last-ditch defender if the situation arises.
While Crimmins had previously relied on an Australian-style punting technique, he’s made adjustments to adopt a more traditional American-style punt this offseason. Known for one of the strongest legs in the Big Ten—and potentially the country—Crimmins also has the finesse to place the ball strategically to win field position battles.
Experience
Crimmins made his college football debut at Mississippi State in 2023, where he was ranked as the No. 7 punter in his class (and No. 3 from the renowned Prokick Australia program). His performance at MSU was solid, leading him to transfer to Purdue for the 2024 season, where he was called upon frequently.
In 2024, Crimmins led the Big Ten in total punts, averaging 44.9 yards per attempt—ranking 13th nationally and 3rd in the conference.
| Year | Team | Games | Punts | Punt Avg. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Purdue | 12 | 64 | 44.9 |
| 2023 | Mississippi St. | 12 | 49 | 40.9 |
Media Highlights
What they’re saying:
“Punting in the Big Ten has given me a better understanding of the conditions, the competition, and the overall game experience,” Crimmins said about his transition from Purdue to Illinois.
2025 Outlook
Crimmins is Illinois’ No. 1 punter heading into the season, and despite the arrival of fellow Aussie transfer Lars Rau, his position is secure. The Illini are optimistic that Crimmins will receive an additional year of eligibility after 2025, underscoring the high expectations surrounding his performance. His powerful leg will be particularly valuable in the windy conditions typical of Big Ten games, especially as the season progresses. Additionally, Crimmins’ ability to deliver both long punts and precise kicks to pin opponents inside their own 20 will be a significant asset for defensive coordinator Aaron Henry’s bend-but-don’t-break defensive strategy.
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