Bret Bielema Extends Barry Lunney Jr.'s Contract

Illinois head coach Bret Bielema extends offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr.s contract, making him the highest-paid assistant in program history. Lunney, who has led the team to 32 wins and 19 losses, including three seasons with at least eight victories each, praised the stability the extension brings to his family. The deal, worth $1.4 million in 2026, $1.45 million in 2027, and $1.5 million in 2028, sets up Illinois for more deep runs in the Big Ten. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/052635b20abb71d1