5 returning players ready to break out for Illinois

The Fighting Illini have collectively gained a tremendous amount of mass during the calendar year 2023.

They are now burdened with the weight of expectations.

Bret Bielema’s squad went 8-5 led by a smothering defense and an all-world running back. Their secondary placed four players on NFL rosters, including a top-5 pick in Devon Witherspoon.

Coupled with the belief that the Illini redemption arc is legit is the need to replace major contributors. The 2022 team outperformed predictions and defied analyst’s putrid prophecies.

So who from last year’s team is poised to step into a big role this season?

Kenenna Odeluga

Photo by Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

This spot could have also gone to James Kreutz or Dylan Rosiek. Both of them will also see expanded roles with the graduation of Isaac Darkangelo and the transfer of Calvin Hart. Darkangelo…