Illinois Football 2025 Scouting Report: Wide Receiver Collin Dixon

Illinois on SI is delivering scouting reports for each of the key players on the Illini football team's 2025 roster. Below, we present our breakdown of Illini sophomore wide receiver Collin Dixon. We will add more as other on-field contributors emerge during the season. Find our scouting reports of other Illinois players by searching in your favorite browser or clicking in our projected depth chart.

Collin Dixon | Wide receiver | Sophomore | No. 17

Hometown: Tallmadge, OhioHigh school: TallmadgeHeight: 6-foot-1Weight: 215 pounds

Scouting report

Dixon brings a powerful and athletic presence to both the slot and outside positions. He combines physicality with enough speed to challenge defenses vertically and create problems after the catch. Against tight coverage or when matched up with most defensive backs, he uses his frame to win, breaks tackles and consistently picks up yards after contact. His awareness and sharp route-running allow him to sit down in soft spots against zone looks, while his footwork and burst make him a tough assignment in one-on-one matchups.

Beyond his ability as a receiver, Dixon does the little things that make an offense run smoothly. He’s a willing blocker on the perimeter, showing the toughness and unselfishness to spring teammates for extra yards. His versatility and commitment to doing whatever the team needs elevates his value, and with his complete skill set, he has the tools to grow into a key contributor for the Illini in 2025.

Experience

Dixon, a three-star prospect coming out of high school, chose Illinois over notable offers from Northwestern and Wisconsin. His size and athleticism made him a strong addition to the Illini receiving corps, and he was able to learn from Isaiah Williams and Pat Bryant. Dixon spent his first year on campus redshirting in 2023, and used that time to adjust to the college game, refine his route-running and grow into his frame.

In 2024, Dixon took a step forward, appearing in all 13 games and emerging as a consistent contributor for Illinois. He earned his first career start against Kansas, when he also recorded his first college catch, and steadily built on that experience throughout the season. Known for his reliability, he capped the year with a clutch 27-yard reception in the Citrus Bowl win over South Carolina, a glimpse of his potential as a dependable target in big moments.

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