Chambana Sun

Cornerback Terrance Brooks has signed a Big Ten Tender of Financial Aid with the University of Illinois, according to an announcement by head coach Bret Bielema. Brooks is transferring from Texas, where he started 16 career games and received All-Big XII honorable mention recognition last season.

"We are excited to bring Terrance to Illinois," said Bielema. "He is an extremely talented player with valuable experiences as an all-conference college football player from a football family. As soon as we got him to campus, we knew we could provide a great match for what Terrance was looking for in a University, football program, and community. We're excited to get him here to join our Illini famILLy."

Last season at Texas, Brooks started 13 games and contributed significantly to the team's success, including winning the Big XII Championship and participating in the College Football Playoff. He recorded 20 tackles, six passes defended, and three interceptions. His performance earned him a spot among the top 20 Power-5 cornerbacks with a passer rating against of 58.7 according to PFF metrics.

Brooks expressed his enthusiasm about joining Illinois: "Thank you to Coach Bielema and Coach Henry for the opportunity to join the Illini famILLy," he said. "I can't wait to get back to Champaign to get to work."

Brooks comes from a strong football background; his father Chet played safety at Texas A&M and spent three years in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers. Chet was part of two Super Bowl teams.

"I think, from a coaching perspective, the Illinois staff fit what Terrance was looking for based off what he has learned in college football," said Chet Brooks. "Coach Bielema and Coach Henry have a proven track record of development with trust, truth, and transparency. They have turned no-star guys into NFL players. We're really looking forward to this journey."