Champaign, IL – The University of Illinois football program is experiencing significant changes to its coaching staff as the team prepares for the future. Over the weekend, reports surfaced regarding the departures of two key coordinators.
Coaching Staff Shifts
Special teams coordinator Robby Discher is reportedly heading to Ohio State. More significantly, defensive coordinator Aaron Henry is expected to join Marcus Freeman’s staff at Notre Dame, according to CBS Sports. Matt Zenitz reports Henry will serve as co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach with the Fighting Irish.
Henry’s appointment as defensive coordinator followed the departure of Ryan Walters, who left after two seasons to become head coach at Purdue. Henry initially joined Bret Bielema in Champaign in 2021 as the defensive backs coach.
Performance and Future Outlook
Despite the program achieving a record of 19 wins over the past two seasons, Henry’s performance as defensive coordinator has drawn criticism. The team now faces the task of finding a replacement, and it is anticipated that Bielema will look outside the current program to fill the role.
Currently, Barry Lunney Jr. is reported to be returning in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What positions are affected by these changes?
The positions of special teams coordinator and defensive coordinator are directly affected. Robby Discher is leaving his role as special teams coordinator, and Aaron Henry is departing as defensive coordinator.
Where is Aaron Henry going?
Aaron Henry is expected to join the Notre Dame coaching staff as co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach, working under Marcus Freeman.
Who will replace Aaron Henry?
As of this report, no replacement for Aaron Henry has been named. However, it is expected that Bret Bielema will seek a candidate from outside the current Illinois program.
How will these coaching changes impact the Illinois football program’s trajectory in the coming seasons?