TE Daniel Barker to return for another season

Daniel Barker is the latest on a long list of Illini set to return for an additional season under new head coach Bret Bielema.

Barker announced the news via his Twitter account.

Barker emerged as the team’s top tight end in a room that included Daniel Imatorbhebhe and Luke Ford.

The Florida native was on the receiving end of the game-winning touchdown over Michigan State in 2019 — and followed up that with another strong season.

Over the last two seasons where Barker has garnered significant playing time, he has been the Illini’s top tight end and arguably second best weapon through the air behind Josh Imatorbhebhe.

The last two years have seen Barker snag 37 catches for 541 yards and six touchdowns — and he will return to an offense that will have a new coordinator in Tony Petersen and a lot of familiar faces (Brandon Peters, Alex Palczewski, Vederian Lowe and Doug Kramer) in 2021.