33 days to Camp Rantoul
No. 3: Martez Wilson, linebacker.
Why he's important: Start with the obvious, he is the team's leading returning tackler. Though some considered his sophomore season a disappointment, he still made 73 stops, good for third on the team behind departed Brit Miller and Vontae Davis. He had three sacks, a number that should climb in 2009. After two years working on the outside, the coaches feel they have found the right place for him at middle linebacker. It seemed to be working during the spring and Wilson said he likes the new spot. Being part of calling the plays will be good for Wilson. Remember, the guy is still just 20 and didn't take a redshirt. We won't be at all surprised if he puts together a pair of monster seasons to finish his Illini career before the NFL calls. Of course, the Illinois coaches will remind you he still has plenty of work to do before that happens.
Getting personal: Returns after suffering serious stab wounds in December. There didn't appear to be any problems with the wounds during the spring as Wilson was a full participant. One of the most highly regarded Illini recruits ever, Wilson picked the school over Southern Cal, Florida, Ohio State, Notre Dame and others.
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