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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – The Illinois football team has secured the continued expertise of their offensive coordinator with a fresh contract deal.
Barry Lunney Jr., the strategic mind behind the Illini offense, has agreed to a contract extension, as reported by ESPN on Tuesday. This development has been corroborated by the university’s board of trustees report.
Heading into his sixth year at the helm of the Illini offense in 2026, Lunney’s new contract spans three years, positioning him as the highest-paid assistant coach in the history of the program. ESPN revealed that the contract is valued at $3.45 million over its duration.
Under his guidance, quarterback Luke Altmyer has thrived, and the Illinois offense achieved an impressive average of 373 yards per game in the 2025 season.
Before his tenure in Illinois, Lunney’s coaching journey included roles at UTSA, Arkansas, and Tulsa, among other positions.
The Illini are tasked with replacing Altmyer, wide receiver Hank Beatty and a bulk of its offensive line in 2026, among others.