Illinois football loses Music City Bowl hero to transfer portal
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CHAMPAIGN — Illinois all-Big Ten kicker David Olano says he will enter the transfer portal ahead of his final college football season, according to a Thursday post on his social media.
Olano’s field goal in the final seconds lifted the Fighting Illini past Tennessee in the Music City Bowl, 30-28, sending Illinois to its second consecutive season with nine or more wins — a program first.
“After deep consideration and many talks with my family, I have decided to enter my name into the transfer portal for my last year of eligibility,” Olano wrote in a letter posted to his social media. “This decision was not taken lightly, and while I’m excited for what lies ahead, a piece of me will always belong to Illinois. I will be forever thankful for this program.”
Olano is a 5-foot-11, 190-pound junior from Naperville North. He finished 37-for-43 on field goals for Illinois, including 3-for-3 in the Music City Bowl victory. He holds the school record for most field goals (five) and kicking points (19) in a single game, set in 2025 vs. Purdue.
“For the past three years, it has been an honor to play at the University of Illinois,” Olano wrote. “This school has taught me an unthinkable number of lessons on and off the field, shaping me into the man I am today. I have experienced some of my best memories during my time here that I will never forget.”
Olano went on to thank the Illinois coaches, the staff and his teammates, who he says have provided immense support and guidance. The transfer portal officially opens Friday, Jan. 2 and closes Jan. 16.
“Illinois has shaped me in ways I’ll cherish for the rest of my life,” Olano said. “I’m grateful to have Illinois be a part of me forever.”
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Illinois football: Kicker David Olano enters transfer portal
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