Illinois football welcomed the newest addition to its coaching staff, James White, as the assistant running backs coach. 

White is familiar with the Big Ten environment as a former Wisconsin Badger. During his time as a Badger, White was coached by none other than current Illini head coach Bret Bielema. He was the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2010 and was a two-time second-team All-Big Ten selection. At 33 years old, with a seasoned football resume, he can offer some insightful guidance to the young running backs of the Illini. 

“Since first recruiting James out of St. Thomas Aquinas, he has continued to be an impressive person both on and off the football field,” Bielema said in a statement. “James has always been a leader in the locker room and demanded respect from his teammates and coaches. With his experiences in the Big Ten and on the biggest stages in the NFL, he will be a great resource for our running backs.”

White played with the Badgers when they won three Big Ten titles and made three trips to the Rose Bowl during the 2010-2013 seasons. 

After his college success, he made his way into the NFL. Throughout his professional career, White played for what some say is the NFL’s best dynasty. He spent all eight years of his playing career with the New England Patriots, winning three Super Bowls.

White is no stranger to working hard and striving for victory. He set a Super Bowl record of 14 receptions for 110 receiving yards during Super Bowl LI. His impressive work on the field will hopefully translate to excellent coaching over Illinois’ roster.

Skilled in rushing and passing, White will work alongside running backs coach Thad Ward to get guys like junior running back Josh McCray and sophomore running back Aidan Laughery into the end zone more often.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to work with Coach Bielema and his staff,” White said. “I am excited to get to learn and grow with the coaches and players as we work to be the best we can be on a daily basis.”

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