It's official: Jarred Fayson will transfer to Illinois.

The Florida sophomore receiver, who was given his release from the Gators last month, told the Times Monday he plans to sign with Illinois and enroll in January. Fayson, who will have to sit out a season, said while he will primarily play receiver, he will also get a chance to play quarterback, a position he thrived at for three years at Hillsborough High.

"It's a good style of offense," Fayson said. "I know their coaching staff pretty well -- it's a good fit for me."

Fayson visited Illinois two weeks ago, but also received interest from Clemson, West Virginia and South Florida. The former Terriers star played sparingly with the Gators, racking up 12 receptions and 19 rushes this past season. Fayson was rated the No.3 receiver in the nation by Scout.com out of high school, where he led the Terriers to an undefeated regular season and a region semifinal appearance in 2005.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com