In one of the most surprising developments of this transfer portal cycle, West Virginia wide receiver Hudson Clement has announced his departure from the Mountaineers program. The Martinsburg native has committed and signed to play for Bret Bielema and the Illinois Fighting Illini.
Clement, who initially joined West Virginia as a walk-on, made an immediate impact and earned a scholarship following a breakout performance in 2023 against Duquesne. Filling in for the injured Devin Carter, Clement exploded onto the scene with five receptions for 177 yards and three touchdowns in a single game.
While his 2024 season began quietly, Clement found his groove during Big 12 play. In the conference opener against Kansas, he delivered a stellar performance, catching seven passes for 150 yards. From that point, he emerged as quarterback Garrett Greene’s go-to target, solidifying himself as the team’s top receiver.
Clement ended the 2024 season leading West Virginia in all major receiving categories, securing the triple crown among receivers with 51 receptions, 741 receiving yards, and five touchdowns. His final performance as a Mountaineer was one to remember, tallying 11 catches for 166 yards and two touchdowns in the loss to Memphis during the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl.
The move to Illinois marks a new chapter for Clement, who will have two years of eligibility remaining. Joining a program led by Bret Bielema, Clement is expected to bring his playmaking ability and consistency to the Fighting Illini’s offense.
Clement’s departure leaves a significant void for West Virginia. His story of rising from a walk-on to the team’s leading receiver resonated with fans and teammates alike. While his decision to transfer was unexpected, it underscores the dynamic nature of the transfer portal in today’s college football landscape.
For Illinois, Clement’s addition is a major coup, adding a proven talent with a track record of stepping up in big moments. As he transitions to the Big Ten, all eyes will be on how Clement’s skillset adapts to a new system and competition level.
West Virginia will now look to reload its receiving corps as it prepares for the 2025 season, while Clement embarks on the next phase of his college football journey in Champaign.