Chambana Sun

Former Illini defensive back Terry Hawthorne has been appointed as the Director of Defensive Player Personnel for Illinois, head coach Bret Bielema announced recently. Hawthorne, who had a notable stint as an All-Big Ten honorable mention at Illinois, previously played for the Pittsburgh Steelers following his draft in 2013, and worked with the Fighting Illini staff in 2021.

Head coach Bret Bielema noted, "I am excited to bring back Terry, a former Illinois player that knows the Illini famILLy well and embraces everything we believe in." Bielema believes Hawthorne's experience both within Illinois and across college football will be a significant asset to current and future players.

Hawthorne expressed his gratitude for the new role, stating, "I'm incredibly grateful to Coach Bielema and Patrick Embleton for the opportunity to return to my alma mater. Illinois is more than just a school, it's home away from home for me. I'm excited to be back with the famILLy and continue to help build something special."

Before returning to Illinois, Hawthorne served as the cornerbacks coach at Southern Illinois for three seasons, contributing to successful playoff runs and victories against notable teams like Northwestern and Northern Illinois. His coaching journey began at East St. Louis High School, assisting as a wide receivers and defensive backs coach. In March 2021, he returned to Illinois, taking on the role of Director of High School Personnel and Illini Relations.

During his playing career from 2009-12, Hawthorne participated in 44 games with 34 starts, achieving significant personal stats and contributing to Illinois' victories in two bowl games. His performance was particularly noted during the 2011 Illini defense's top-ten national ranking.

Hawthorne's other professional experiences include playing in the Canadian Football League and assisting East St. Louis to state titles. Additionally, he facilitated Division I scholarships for more than ten football student-athletes.

Hawthorne graduated with a sports management degree in 2013 and is a father to two sons, Lennox and Tru.