Bret Bielema updates rehab status for Illinois RB Josh McCray

The Illinois offense will hopefully be getting a big boost in the next 2 weeks with the return of RB Josh McCray.

Speaking to the press on Monday, head coach Bret Bielema said that McCray is running on land, and would indeed be returning this week or next.

#illini Bret Bielema: Josh McCray is kind of a work in progress. He started running on land and is doing things that indicate he is getting closer to a return. I don't know if it will be this week or next week.

— Joey Wagner (@mrwagner25) September 26, 2022

Illinois has been relying on the talents of Chase Brown during McCray’s absence. But, McCray’s return will provide relief for the thin Illini backfield and Brown as well. The RB has been out with a hyperextended knee since the season opener against Wyoming in Week 0.

McCray was expected to have a big season with the Illini. He was the No. 2 back in 2021, and he rushed for 549 yards in the Illinois backfield last season. He had a positive showing in Week 0, rushing for 40 yards on 10 carries in Illinois’ win over Wyoming before suffering the hyperextended knee.