Illinois defensive end Jihad Ward will miss at least the first two games of the season with an undisclosed injury that will require surgery, coach Tim Beckman said after today’s Camp Rantoul practice.
Coaches are hoping that Ward, considered a linchpin for Mike Phair and Tim Banks’ defense, will be able to return for the Illinois game at North Carollia on Sept, 19.
The junior college transfer had 51 tackles in 2014, including three sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss.
Ward to miss start of season
