Illinois has added some beef from the transfer portal.

Clay Patterson, one of the top FCS defensive line transfers this cycle, announced his commitment to Illinois on Saturday. He announced his decision on Twitter.

Patterson totaled 109 tackles, 30.5 tackles for loss and 22.5 sacks for the Bulldogs during the last three seasons. Standing at 6-foot-3, 290 pounds, Patterson picked up several portal offers after he entered as a grad transfer recently. He picked the Illini over offers from Colorado, Houston, Oregon State and USF.

This is a huge win out of the portal for coach Bret Beilema and his staff. Defensive line is arguably the team’s biggest need this offseason. The team is losing several starters on the line including All-Conference selection Keith Randolph and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year Johnny Newton.

Patterson will have one year of eligibility at Illinois next season.