Corey Parker spent the last two seasons on staff at Toledo, where he helped mold corner Quinyon Mitchell into a first-round draft pick.
Not only was Mitchell a first-round pick, he was the first defensive back taken off the board in the 2024 Draft.
The past two seasons were Parker's first at the major college level, where Jason Candle brought him to Glass City as corners coach and defensive pass game coordinator. Now he is set to join the ranks of the Big Ten.
Bret Bielema and Illinois have made a strong move in announcing Parker as their dew defensive backs coach.
As good as Parker has been developing talent at Toledo, those that come in contact with him will surely mention his passion and energy first, both of which have become trademarks of his coaching and recruiting style.
Before taking the job on Candle's staff at Toledo, Parker turned the River Rouge (MI) program in Detroit into a state powerhouse that regularly churned out Division I talent, sending a number of players to the NFL.
This past draft night was a busy one for Parker, as after Mitchell was selected, Clemson defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro was taken in the second round and Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden came off the board in the sixth round. Both were coached by Parker at River Rouge.
Stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.