Julian Pearl has been a key offensive lineman for Illinois under Bret Bielema. On Sunday afternoon, Pearl provided a jolt to the program, announcing his plans to return for the 2023 season.

His announcement adds to a core group of offensive line pieces returning to the Illini for next season. That includes fellow offensive linemen Isaiah Adams and Jordyn Slaughter to help anchor the o-line.

Pearl has 22 starts for Illinois since Bielema arrived for the 2021 season. He appeared in 7 games with 4 starts at right tackle during the 2020 COVID season.

Pearl has appeared in a number of positions across the offensive line with appearances at right guard and right tackle in 2021. He made the switch to left tackle in 2022 with 11 starts.

Illinois is replacing a number of key pieces offensively, including at quarterback and running back with Tommy DeVito and Chase Brown moving on. Returning some veteran pieces to an already strong offensive line should help the offense with a smoother transition next season.