Junior quarterback Luke Altmyer announced he would stay at Illinois for his senior season on Saturday evening. He made a video, which he posted on social media after it was displayed at the State Farm Center during Illinois’ men’s basketball game against No. 1 Tennessee. Altmyer announced his intent to stay for another year and then stepped onto the court, thanking the fans for their support.
“I love it here. I don’t know how I could ever leave,” Altmyer said to the State Farm Center crowd. “I’m so excited for next season.”
The quarterback led the Illini to a 9-3 record and an upcoming appearance in the Citrus Bowl. In 2024, Altmyer threw for 2543 yards, 21 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He was also active on the ground, rushing for 219 yards and four touchdowns. He earned an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention for his accomplishments.
With the ever-evolving college football NIL rules, countless players around the country have entered their names into the portal. Many seek money from bigger programs that can afford to pay them. There was concern amongst the fanbase that Altmyer would be among those transferring and seeking a pay-day after a good season.
However, as he announced on Saturday, the Mississippi native will stay in Illinois. In his announcement to the State Farm Center crowd, he tells fans that he dreamed of playing somewhere like Illinois, with a supportive and passionate community. With very few seniors, Illinois will likely only get stronger next season. Getting its starting quarterback back is a huge win.
The Illini are coming off of a historic season. It is only the eighth time the program has won nine games in a season. Its 2025 recruiting class has been ranked in the top 50 by multiple media outlets, and with plenty of intriguing transfers in the portal, Illinois will likely be right back in the rankings next season.
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