DeSean Jackson, Delaware Stare lands former Illinois QB

Ahead of the start of the college football season, DeSean Jackson and Delaware State have secured the commitment of former Illinois quarterback Samari Collier. Collier announced his commitment to the team following the ability to play another year of college football after being granted a temporary restraining order against the NCAA.

“I’m grateful to share that I’ve been granted a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), allowing me to be eligible to compete while my case moves forward,” Collier wrote on social media following the decision. “Thank you to everyone who has supported and prayed for me throughout this journey. All glory to God. I’m ready for what’s next.”

He played three seasons at Hutchinson Community College in Kansas, helping the program capture a JUCO national championship in 2024 after backing out of his commitment to Louisiana. From there, he transferred to Coastal Carolina for the 2025 campaign, appearing in seven games and racking up more than 900 total yards of offense with 14 touchdowns.

He now enters a quarterback competition that includes Jayden Sauray, Marqui Adams, and William & Mary transfer Noah Brannock. The four are expected to compete for the starting job vacated by Kaden Bennett, who held the QB1 role a season ago.

Bennett was a standout on Delaware State’s offense, which was one of the best rushing teams in college football. While he threw for 1,407 yards and eight touchdowns with seven interceptions, he rushed for 564 yards on 115 carries and nine touchdowns. Delaware State finished the season 8-4 and was a game away from winning the MEAC Championship and making the Cricket Celebration Bowl in DeSean Jackson’s first season.

Now Collier looks to follow Bennett and lead the Hornets to a season of success once again.