CHAMPAIGN — New Illinois football coach Lovie Smith wants former players to feel welcomed by the team and the staff. No need to call ahead.
“As often as possible, we would love for them to come around,” Smith said. “This is home. They can come back home any time. You don’t have to call home to say you’re coming. You can show up. We like for our former players to be around our current players as much as possible.”
Former Illini offensive linemen Jon Asamoah and Jack Cornell took Smith up on the offer, watching Illinois’ opening practice Friday night.