One of the pillars of Illinois’ defense over the past four years is coming back under Bret Bielema.
Linebacker Jake Hansen announced Monday morning that he had been granted a waiver to return to Champaign, despite declaring for the NFL Draft in December.
Hansen, a fifth-year senior, had the option to come back under new head coach Bret Bielema due to the pandemic eligibility rule.
Under Lovie Smith, Hansen epitomized Lovie Ball, forcing 10 fumbles (third-most in program history) and leading the nation in forced fumbles in 2019. He also had 14 takeaways over the last two seasons, the most of any player in the nation.