The veteran leadership for Illinois football is something special, and a characteristic of the program that some coaches in the nation would love to have.
The Illini, who recently named six of their most senior players team captains, have immense veteran talent whom younger players can look to for guidance.
One player who stands out from the rest of the pack is fifth-year safety Matthew Bailey. He is a player who exemplifies what it means to be an Illini. Bailey has become a cornerstone for the program throughout his career and was recently named to the prestigious Chuck Bednarik Award watch list.
7️⃣ 𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵.
— Illinois Football (@IlliniFootball) August 21, 2026
Matthew Bailey | Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List pic.twitter.com/nIR2uDWvmR
Bailey, a product of Moline, Illinois, has become a focal point of the Illinois defense over the past few years. Through 39 games, he has recorded 185 total tackles, 15 pass deflections, four interceptions, and four forced fumbles.
The accolades have been plentiful for Bailey, as he's been named a multi-time All-Big Ten honorable mention, as well as a multi-time All-Big Ten third-team member. Bailey also holds the Illinois record for most tackles in a bowl game with 13 tackles against South Carolina in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl.
Matthew Bailey is going to play Superman in 2026, shifting to the 'Chief' role in Bobby Hauck's defense
Bailey was all over the place for the Illini the last two seasons, leading the team with
94 tackles in 2024 and 76 tackles in 2025. His presence on the field has been important, as he possesses the size and speed to play multiple positions.
This season, Bailey has been named the 'Chief' of defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck's new 3-3-5 scheme, which is defined as a hybrid safety/linebacker/nickel that combines the responsibilities of all three positions.
As the 'Chief,' Bailey will be able to roam a little more than in years past and will be used in a multitude of different packages. This can help elevate his production from a year ago, which will certainly help him in his quest for the Chuck Bednarik Award.
Bailey will have to contend with elite talent like Notre Dame's Leonard Moore and Texas' Colin Simmons in order to win this award. With this new development in Hauck's defense, expect Illinois' top defender to make some serious noise this season.
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