A Discussion on NIL, The Transfer Portal and the Journey to Division I College Football featuring University of Illinois Linebacker Malachi Hood

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2023 REDSHIRT FRESHMAN

• Season-ending injury during training camp

2022 FRESHMAN

• Played in one game and redshirted the season
• Made his Illinois debut against Northwestern

HIGH SCHOOL 

• Three-star recruit by 247Sports, ESPN, On3, and Rivals
• Position ranks: #51 (On3), #75 (247), #96 (ESPN)
• State ranks: #14 (On3), #25 (ESPN), #26 (247)
• Played for head coach Jake Jaworski at Joliet Catholic
• Three-year letterwinner
• Led Joliet Catholic to the 2021 IHSA 4A state championship

PERSONAL

• Born December 30, 2003
• Son of Josephine and Michael Hood
• One brother, Michael Jr., and one sister, Michala
• Cousin, Marcus Hood, played linebacker at Illinois from 1997-2000
• Chose Illinois because, “The ‘famILLy’ atmosphere felt like home to me. I have a long line of family legacy at this school as well.”
• Plans to major in business
• Plans to start a clothing business in the future