Upcoming senior running back Josh McCray informed On3 on April 15 of his intent to enter the transfer portal.
Despite his strong connection to head coach Bret Bielema, McCray is parting ways with his Illini family. McCray was Bielema’s very first recruit when he started his journey as head coach at Illinois. Both Bielema and McCray speak highly of each other, so McCray’s decision was shocking to many Illinois fans.
Following two back-to-back injury-filled seasons, McCray returned with a vengeance in 2024. With junior running back Kaden Feagin out for most of the season, McCray filled a hole for the Illini’s run game. McCray amassed 10 touchdowns and over 600 yards, making 2024 the best season of his career.
McCray’s journey at Illinois was nothing short of greatness. Overcoming adversities in his second and third season as an Illini, McCray made an marvelous comeback and proved to be a crucial part of their success.
Even with Feagin likely to return in the fall, McCray isn’t afraid to share the spotlight and the amount of carries.
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“I think it will keep everyone in the room fresh,” McCray said earlier this month. “I don’t really look at it as a bad thing … that’s a good thing.”
Running backs coach Thad Ward and new assistant running backs coach James White will have their work cut out for them next season with a key part of their group missing.
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