Suspended Illini LB Williams back with scout team

CHAMPAIGN — Illinois coach Ron Zook says junior linebacker Ashante Williams has started practicing with the scout team after he was charged with drunken driving and suspended from the team.

Zook said Tuesday he isn’t sure whether Williams will rejoin the first team. The coach says he has no time in mind to make that decision. Zook says he wanted to keep Williams with the team in some fashion as he nears graduation.

Williams was arrested in Urbana in July and charged with two counts of drunken driving. Court officials say the Mayfield, Ohio, native has not entered a plea. He is due in court Sept. 8.

Williams played in all 13 games last season and was expected to play a lot this fall. Illinois opens the season Saturday against Arkansas State.