With the rise of the transfer portal in college football, high school players are having a harder time getting recruited and they’re making college choices sooner.
Heading into the 2025 season, only two top-50 players in Illinois’ senior class remain uncommitted.
One is Nazareth receiver Trenton Walker, who is keeping his priorities in order.
“It’s not that frustrating,” he told Southwest Regional before a preseason practice. “I don’t let it get to me. I just focus on the moment itself because I know I have to focus on football — this season right now — instead of worrying about recruiting and stuff.”
Walker is a speedy and athletic 6-2, 170-pounder who played a starring role in the Roadrunners’ 29-27 win over Joliet Catholic in last year’s Class 5A title game. He caught four passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns, including a 74-yarder.
Here’s some bad news for opposing defenses: Walker expects to be a better player in a variety of ways this fall.
“I would definitely say that I’m gonna have a lot more speed this year,” he said. “I did a lot of speed work this offseason. Being able to jump higher — which, I’ve already always had that. And just focusing on my hands and route running.”
He’s one of two Division I receivers returning for the three-time defending Class 5A champion Roadrunners, who move up to 6A this season. The other is Illinois State commit Jake Cestone, a 6-2, 185-pound senior.
Walker’s physical gifts are exceptional. But that’s not the only reason he’s a consensus top-40 senior in Illinois.
“He’s been taking a step up every year he’s been on varsity,” Nazareth coach Tim Racki said. “This will be his third year (plus) we brought him up for the playoff run his freshman year.
“But off the field, he’s so humble, modest. That’s why he’s a captain this year. He works so hard, he’s never satisfied. He’s such a team player and that’s why the team loves him and the coaches love him.”
It seems like just a matter of time before some college recruiter feels the same way about Walker. His offers include one from Big 12 power Iowa State.
“I’m just waiting to get some more film from this next season because I know what I’m capable of,” he said.
He’s also working to keep the lines of communication open.
“I’ve been talking to Auburn, which is a big one for me,” Walkr said. “That’s my dream school.”
In the meantime, he’s working on his craft and working with his teammates to keep Nazareth in the state conversation.
“The stakes are high this year,” Walker said. “Just being able to keep our head on us … because everybody here has always been around winning. We don’t know what it’s like to lose. … We have to stay humble and keep working. … It’s not going to come easy.”
Trenton Walker is as outstanding a young man as he is a football player. I have seen him grow and develop since his freshman year. He will be an asset to any school he chooses. Very happy for him and proud of him.