Joe Barna Rising for Illini Defense | Illinois Fighting Illini Football News

Joe Barna, Illinois’ explosive 6-foot-4, 280-pound defensive end, is poised to be a game-changer this season. Built like a linebacker with the power of a defensive end, he’s mastering the Illini’s new scheme and already showing flashes of elite play — including a strip-sack touchdown in the Music City Bowl. After shoulder surgery sidelined him in spring, he’s returned stronger, earning key reps in fall camp and dominating early in the opener against UAB. With Gabe Jacas as his blueprint and leadership expected from the trenches, Barna’s breakout campaign could define Illinois’ defensive turnaround. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://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/f504a8481dd814a6