Sources tell FootballScoop Bret Bielema is seeking to hire NC State receivers / passing game coordinator George McDonald. McDonald played at Illinois '95-98.
McDonald served as co-offensive coordinator for the 2019 season; but Dave Doeren hired Tim Beck for the 2020 season and McDonald's role was reduced.
At Illinois, McDonald would be expected to coach receivers, and would likely carry an additional title as well sources tell FootballScoop.
Thus far, on offense, Bielema has hired: Tony Petersen as offensive coordinator / quarterbacks, Bart Miller as offensive line coach, Cory Patterson as running backs coach and Ben Miller as tight ends coach.
McDonald has coached receivers at NC State since the 2015 season. He served as offensive coordinator at Syracuse in 2013 & '14. He coached receivers two seasons at Miami in '11 & '12. He spent the '09 & '10 seasons coaching receivers for the Cleveland Browns. He also has experience at Minnesota, Western Michigan, Stanford, Northern Illinois and Ball State.
Illinois would like to have the deal completed in the coming days. Will update once more is clear.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest coaching news.