Dezmond Schuster cleared for extra year of eligibility at Illinois

Dezmond Schuster cleared for extra year of eligibility at Illinois

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Dezmond Schuster cleared for extra year of eligibility at Illinois
CHAMPAIGN, IL – SEPTEMBER 13: Illinois Football OL Dezmond Schuster (63) during a college football game between the Western Michigan Broncos and Illinois Fighting Illini on September 13, 2025 at Gies Memorial Stadium in Champaign, IL (Photo by James Black/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Offensive lineman Dezmond Schuster has officially been given a sixth year of eligibility to play for Illinois this upcoming season. According to head coach Bret Bielema, Schuster had been dealing with a medical setback, but is ready to contribute to the offensive line.  

“He didn’t get cleared until summer started,” Bielema said. “Had to go through a few things there. Got a waiver for an extension of his time to give him another year to play here with us. So, super excited to have him.”

Schuster, who has appeared in just nine games for Illinois, gives its offensive line strength and size. While not being a projected starter, his experience with the team can make him a valuable depth piece. Bielema views his experience with the program as something that can help the new faces acclimate to the offense.

“Gives us added depth…from an offensive line perspective,” Bielema said. “In a case like Dez, he’s been in our program now going to year three. So, guy has been around, seen that, learned our offense very, very well.” 

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