Cal LB Hardy Nickerson transferring to Illinois
Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.
Cal linebacker Hardy Nickerson will transfer to Illinois, he announced Thursday.
Nickerson will leave the program as a graduate transfer, meaning he will be able to play for the Illini immediately. He made the decision so he can play under his father, who was hired as the defensive coordinator by new Illinois coach Lovie Smith.
In the statement regarding his decision to leave, Nickerson said the chance to play for his father was something he “simply cannot pass up.”
Nickerson was the Golden Bears’ defensive leader last season, racking up 112 total tackles.
