Pinckneyville star tight end Karsen Konkel announced his college decision Wednesday morning.  The 6’6, 225 lb Panthers star verbally committed to and Bret Bielma and the University of Illinois on Twitter.

100% COMMITTED 🔸🔹 @IlliniFootball @BretBielema @RobbyDischer pic.twitter.com/bDt7U1N598

— Karsen Konkel (@karsen_konkel) June 21, 2023

Konkel is a three-star recruit and considered by some to be a top-20 recruit in the state.  He has only played in six varsity contests in his high school career.  Konkel played one game as a sophomore and only half a season as a junior last season before suffering a cracked tibia in his right leg during the team’s game against Du Quoin in Week 5.

Konkel has impressed at football camps however with his athleticism and speed.  He has recorded a 4.69 40-yard-dash.

The upcoming senior had offers from Pitt and Arkansas and interest from Ball State and Boston College according to 247sports.com.

Konkel and the Panthers open the season on August 25 when they host Red Bud.