Bret Bielema wants to be there for his guys — literally.
Illinois’ head football coach plans to attend the NFL Draft for the first time in his coaching career later this month, according to FightingIllini.com.
This year’s draft is being held in Kansas City, starting Thursday, April 20 — one week after Illinois’ spring game.
“I couldn’t be more excited,” Bielema said last week. “I’ve had several first-round picks, but I’ve never gone to the draft. It never used to dawn on me.”
Bielema shouldn’t have to wait long to hear the first Illini’s name called.