Four-star quarterback Kamden Lopati has withdrawn his verbal commitment to Illinois, ending a two‑year pledge that made him the Illini’s top 2027 recruit. The 6‑foot‑3, 225‑pound Salt Lake City native ranked No. 2 overall quarterback by ESPN and No. 50 in the SC Next Junior 300. Sources confirmed the split on Monday. His departure leaves Illinois scrambling to replace a cornerstone of their projected offensive scheme.

During March and early April Lopati toured Michigan, Notre Dame, Duke and California, cancelling a scheduled Illinois visit before announcing his decommitment. Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham and offensive coordinator Jason Beck cultivated a close relationship early, while Notre Dame earned a “dream school” label from the prospect. Georgia also re‑entered the race, targeting the quarterback market’s elite.

Lopati’s exit reshapes Illinois’ 2027 quarterback class, leaving the program without a top‑tier passer as rivals lock in their targets. Michigan and Notre Dame now lead the chase, each hoping to add an ESPN No. 2 talent to already stacked offenses. Meanwhile, four other top‑rated QBs—Israel Abrams, Davin Davidson, Blake Roskopf and Luke Babin—have signed, setting the stage for a crowded recruiting battle.