The Illinois Fighting Illini went 9-4 and had strong quarterback play from Luke Altmyer, who threw for 3,007 yards, 22 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Altmyer has moved on, so it will be a new look on the Illinois offense. Replacing a starting quarterback is never easy, especially in the Big Ten. The Illini are turning the page at quarterback while trying to build on a 2025 season that included a bowl victory over Tennessee.

There are legitimate reasons for optimism, however. Illinois has experienced players returning at several key positions, while the addition of quarterback Katin Houser gives the offense a veteran presence. Houser, along with running back Ca’Lil Valentine and receiver Hudson Clement, is a key player to watch this season.

Katin Houser, QB

Houser is a transfer from East Carolina, where he threw for 3,300 yards with 19 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. He is an experienced quaterback which will bode well for Illinois. The Illini don’t need Houser to become one of the Big Ten’s elite quarterbacks immediately.

They need him to be consistent, protect the football, and give the offense a chance to stay on the field against some of the conference’s best defenses. His ability to make plays with his legs could also add another dimension to the offense.

Ca’Lil Valentine, RB

Valentine returns for his third season at Illinois. Last year he ran for 614 yards and four touchdowns on 4.4 yards per carry. Illinois needs more explosive plays from its ground game, particularly against opponents capable of putting pressure on Houser.

Valentine’s ability to consistently create positive yardage can help Illinois stay ahead of the chains. More importantly, a productive running game could force opposing defenses to commit additional players to stopping the run, creating more favorable passing opportunities for Houser. If Valentine can push his production into another tier while becoming a consistent threat as a receiver, Illinois could have a much more balanced offense.

Hudson Clement, WR

Clement will be entering his senior season after spending last season at Illinois. In 13 games, Clement compiled 36 catches for 454 yards and three touchdowns. Clement caught at least one pass in every game last season and recorded at least two receptions in each of Illinois’ final 12 games. He also produced six receptions against No. 1 Ohio State and finished with a team-high 48 receiving yards in Illinois’ Music City Bowl victory over No. 23 Tennessee.

Clement has already demonstrated that he can consistently get involved in the offense, giving Houser a proven option when plays break down or the offense needs to move the chains. Illinois will need more explosive plays through the air, and Clement has an opportunity to become one of the offense’s primary playmakers.

Ultimately, Houser’s transition, Valentine’s development and Clement’s production could determine whether Illinois takes another step forward in 2026 or struggles to replace the production of its departing offensive leaders.