Bret Bielema had the DB coaching position filled on his coaching staff Friday. It was someone that used to player under Bielema while at Wisconsin.

Antonio Fenelus DB played at Wisconsin from 2008-2011. Feneleus will now be the team’s next DB coach. Fenelus previously spent time with LSU as a defensive analyst, working with the DB’s in Baton Rouge.

Fenelus recorded 155 total tackles, 3 tackles for loss, and 9 interceptions during his time at Wisconsin. Fenelus emphasized how excited he is for this new opportunity with Illinois via a team press release:

“I am so excited for my family and I to be joining the family in Champaign. I am looking forward to doing all I can to help our players and the program continue to reach new heights. Coach B has put together an amazing staff and I am very grateful that he and Coach Henry trust me to lead an outstanding group of young men. I can’t wait to hit the ground running.”

The Illinois secondary allowed the sixth-fewest passing yards per game this season with 165.4. Players like Devon Witherspoon helped lead the defensive backs in Champaign.

The Illinois defense will be without Ryan Walters in 2023. Walters left Illinois to become the next head coach at Purdue. Jeff Brohm left to become to the head coach at his alma mater Louisville.