Carbondale Reporter

Junior linebacker Chris Presto, from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, shared insights about his football journey and team dynamics at Southern Illinois University (SIU). As a sophomore in 2024, Presto recorded 66 tackles and ranked second on the team for tackles for loss with 8.5.

Presto recounted his recruitment process from Cardinal Newman High School: "I had some preferred walk-on options, but I really had no scholarship offers in high school. My high school head coach knows Coach Hill and emailed him, and Coach Hill really liked what he saw." He expressed gratitude for the opportunity offered by SIU.

Reflecting on not receiving scholarship offers despite an accomplished high school career, Presto said: "Yeah, going to sleep every night, that's something that's on your mind, but you can't let that mess with you."

Upon joining SIU as a freshman, Presto immediately contributed to the team without redshirting. "I came in at like 190 pounds," he said. "I've gained like 40 pounds since I've been here." His first season provided valuable lessons about the pace of college football.

Presto made his starting debut against BYU: "They told me in fall camp that I was going to be the starter... it was a great environment to be in." His second start at Austin Peay further boosted his confidence.

Discussing his growth as a player, Presto attributed it to the support of his teammates: "We're a close group and we love each other a lot... hold each other accountable."

He spoke highly of fellow linebacker Ben Bogle: "Bogle is my guy... nobody works as hard as him." On their friendly rivalry in the weight room: "No, I got him! I barely got him by point-one inch."

Presto also praised teammate Shug Walker's character: "If I have kids one day, I'd love for him to be the god-uncle." Colin Bohanek's return brings veteran presence to the team: "He's got a high football IQ."

Coach Lee Pronschinske's promotion to defensive coordinator has been well-received by Presto: "We know how to talk to each other... it's gonna be really fun this year."

On contributing to the team's character, Presto emphasized community involvement: "You just got to represent the name on the front of the jersey... we love doing it."

Baseball played a significant role in Presto's family life due to his father's scouting career with the Kansas City Royals. Despite early interest in baseball, Presto found passion in football during high school.

The competitive spirit runs strong among Presto and his three brothers. He noted similarities between brother Dom and teammate Bogle: "Dom is probably the most competitive out of all of them... any of the reminders you can get is great."