Thad Ward has been promoted to Assistant Head Coach/Running Backs Coach, head coach Bret Bielema announced.

"Thad has been impressive since the day he arrived in the building," said Bielema. "Over the last year, I've seen him grow in many aspects. He will take on a larger role in the player development of our full roster, both on and off the field."

"I'm eager to continue to grow and learn under Coach Bielema's leadership," said Ward. "I appreciate Coach B for the opportunity ahead, and I'm excited for the future here at Illinois."

Ward is in his fifth season and second stint at Illinois in 2024. He brought over 20 years of college football coaching experience back to Champaign, including three years as running backs coach at Illinois from 2016-18, when he was rehired in January 2023.

Ward and the Fighting Illini open spring practices on Tuesday.