Many key players have elected to return the Fighting Illini next season, the first under new head coach Bret Bielema. We can add another one to the list. Standout punter Blake Hayes announced Sunday afternoon that he’d be staying in Champign.
The 6-foot-6 Aussie claimed B1G Punter of the Year accolades in 2019, and was named Honorable Mention All-Big Ten (coaches) and Third Team All-Conference (media) this past season.
Hayes is the program leader in punting yards (10,811) and averaged 43.76 yards per punt in 2020.
Even with every player being granted a free year of eligibility, Hayes’ decision comes as a bit of a surprise, albeit a pleasant one.