CHAMPAIGN — Former NFL defensive back Donnie Abraham will join Lovie Smith’s Illinois football staff Tuesday, a source within the athletic department confirmed to The News-Gazette on Monday.
Abraham will replace Tim McGarigle, who left to take a job with the Green Bay Packers. Defensive coordinator Hardy Nickerson will work with the linebackers, and Abraham will coach the secondary.
The school is expected to make an announcement Tuesday, and Abraham is expected to be with the team at the opening spring practice.
The position doesn't close until midnight Monday, and Abraham will need to complete university paperwork Tuesday before joining the program.