That’s a big boost to the defense.
Illinois safety Matthew Bailey announced Monday that he will return for the 2026 season.
Bailey, who could have put his name in the NFL Draft, started all 12 games in 2025 but did not play in the Music City Bowl due to injury.
He had 76 tackles and two forced fumbles for 9-4 Illinois.
Definitely a help to a defense losing a lot of key pieces and always looking to add experience to the secondary.
