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Ex-Illinois RB announces transfer destination
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Former Illinois running back Ra’Von Bonner became one of the more high profile Illini players to opt out of the 2020 season as he suffers from asthma.
Now, Bonner has literally opted out of the entire program. He entered the transfer portal as a grad transfer and appears to have found a new home as the running back appears to be headed to Philadelphia to join Temple.
Ex #Illini RB Ra'Von Bonner said he has committed as a grad transfer to Temple.
— Shannon Ryan (@SRyanAthletic) December 7, 2020
The Cincinnati native did not appear to leave Champagne on good terms. Reports came out weeks ago that Bonner felt some push back from the Illinois program for opting out and said he didn’t feel like he’d be welcomed back when he played his senior season in 2021.
Though Illinois coach Lovie Smith pushed back at that notion, Bonner still decided to move on from the program and join Temple. The Owls haven’t had much success in 2020 as they sit at 1-6, with their lone win coming against South Florida.
As a grad transfer, Bonner will be eligible to play right away. In three seasons at Illinois, Bonner went for 822 yards and 10 touchdowns. This season, Temple has combined to rush for 982 yards.