It’s not looking like Illinois running back Mike Epstein will return to the field in 2018 according to head coach Lovie Smith.

During his weekly press conference on Tuesday, Smith talked about the possibility of Epstein’s return. The Illini head coach wasn’t too optimistic about those chances.

Smith said Epstein “probably will not be back this year,” according to Jeremy Werner of the Illini Inquirer.

Epstein has played in seven games for the Illini this season, but has missed the last three games with a foot injury. He’s rushed for 411 yards and three touchdowns this season.

This isn’t the first time Epstein has dealt with injury. In his freshman season last fall, the Illinois running back missed the final seven games of the 2017 campaign. He finished the year with 346 yards and three touchdowns.

Illinois’ rushing attack has been pretty solid even without Epstein in the lineup. Reggie Corbin has eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark and quarterback A.J. Bush is a great dual-threat option under center.

Epstein’s injury has still be a disappointing setback for the running back.

The Illini have just two regular season games remaining. They battle Iowa this weekend before taking on Northwestern in the season finale.