Illinois quarterback Aaron Bailey will transfer after two seasons in Champaign. Bailey played in 14 games for the Illini but was used sparingly. 

Bailey was a top recruit for head coach Tim Beckman in 2013. He never started a game in his two seasons with the Illini. He would likely have remained in the backup role behind starter Wes Lunt next season.

Bailey informed Beckman of his intention to transfer two weeks ago. Beckman asked Bailey to take some time to think about it. Bailey approached the coach again Thursday with his final decision. 

“I would like to thank the coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to come to a great University,” Bailey said in a press release. “I also want to thank my teammates, my brothers. I can honestly say that I felt I had a personal relationship with every single player. I love those guys and they made it very difficult to leave.

“Finally, I would like to thank Illini Nation for receiving me with open arms. It’s unfortunate that it didn’t work out at Illinois, and I hope for the best for the program going forward.”

Bailey completed 13 passes for 122 yards in his Illinois career. He also rushed for 203 yards and four touchdowns on 52 carries.