Terry Hawthorne begins practice with Illini

Illinois freshman receiver Terry Hawthorne began practicing with the team this week and has been cleared to catch passes after having a plate inserted in the hand he first broke at the end of the 2008 high school season.

For the time being, Hawthorne will wear a red jersey, indicating he is off limits for contact. However, coach Ron Zook said he anticipates that Hawthorne could be cleared for full contact within a week. He is wearing a protective pad.

Durando