Illinois will have to start a search for a new defensive coordinator. According to a report from Matt Zenitz on X Sunday morning, Notre Dame is expected to hire defensive coordinator Aaron Henry.
Zenitz says Henry will be co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach. It’s nearly the same role he had with the Illini, as defensive coordinator and secondary coach. Henry joined Illinois in 2021 and became the defensive coordinator in 2023.
Henry’s defense had a tumultuous 2025 season. He drew criticism after a five-game stretch in which he allowed 27 or more points. It hit a boiling point when the Illini lost to the Washington Huskies in an ugly showing.
However, he turned it around in the back half of the season. In its last four regular-season games, Illinois held its opponent to 13 or fewer points three times.
The defensive coordinator was a big part of the 2024 success as well. His defense was fifth in the conference in interceptions and tied for first in forced fumbles.
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The Illini will likely start their search for a new defensive coordinator right away. They have plenty of in-house candidates. Co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach Terrance Jamison and defensive backs coach Corey Parker are names to watch.
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