Corey Parker was one of the best-kept secrets about University of Toledo football.

The secret came out of the bag with the rise of Quinyon Mitchell, and now Parker has been poached by Illinois.

The Detroit native will coach defensive backs for the Illini, adding to a resume that includes building River Rouge High School into a Michigan powerhouse.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Illinois football program under coach [Bret] Bielema’s leadership,” Parker said. “During my interview, I had a great feeling about the coaches and the future of the program. There is great continuity within the staff and a great vision for success. We will miss Toledo dearly because of the great sense of community and the relationships we have built there. Yet, my wife, Autumn, and our children are excited to start this next chapter in Champaign.”

Parker spent two seasons with the Rockets, who were 20-8 and made two Mid-American Conference championship game appearances, winning the title in 2022. He played a significant role in Mitchell’s development, resulting in UT’s second-ever first-round draft pick.

Mitchell was a two-time All-American and led the nation in passes defended.

The Rockets ranked in the top 10 nationally in passing efficiency defense in 2022 and 2023 and had a top-10 coverage grade by Pro Football Focus in the past two seasons. UT cornerbacks were only penalized 14 times the past two years.

At River Rouge, Parker won 113 games over 13 seasons, including a state championship in 2019.

“I am excited to welcome coach Parker and his family to Champaign,” Bielema said. “Corey is a proven coach on many levels, both on and off the field. His experiences will bring tremendous value to our program and defensive backs.”

First Published May 13, 2024, 10:03 p.m.