Since the 2021 season, Bret Bielema has been the American football coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini. The Big Ten Conference is where the club plays its trade. From 2006 to 2012, Bielema was the head football coach at Wisconsin. He served as Arkansas's head football coach from 2013 to 2017. Bielema spent three seasons as an NFL assistant coach, first with the New England Patriots in 2018 and 2019 and then with the New York Giants in 2020.
Bielema went to Prophetstown, Illinois, to attend Prophetstown High School. He was a linebacker and tight end in high school. At the University of Iowa, Bielema continued his career as a defensive lineman.
| Name | Bret Bielema |
| Net Worth | Estimated $8 million (as of August 2205) |
| Age | 55 years old (Born January 13, 1970) |
| Residence | Silvis, Illinois |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Jen Hielsberg |
| Source of Wealth | Professional Football |
| Salary | Approximately $3.2 million per year |
| Philanthropy | FamILLy First and more |
Bret Bielema's Net Worth
As of August 2025, Bret Bielema's net worth stands at $8 million, as per Celebrity Net Worth.
Bret Bielema Salary
Bielema was rewarded by Illinois for reviving its faltering football program, and his new contract is valid until 2030. Bielema would start earning $7.7 million a year as per ESPN. Starting July 1, 2025, he was eligible for annual retention incentives and four one-year extensions if performance goals are reached.
Bret Bielema Charity Work
Head football coach Bret Bielema of the University of Illinois and his family are involved in a number of humanitarian endeavors. To show support for soldiers and their families, they recently matched tickets bought by fans to the Military Appreciation Game. The FamILLy First Backpack and School Supply Drive is another initiative they lead, supplying local schools with materials and backpacks. 150 backpacks have already been provided by Bielema and his spouse, Jennifer.
Read More: Bret Bielema Wife
FAQ's On Bret Bielema
A. Bret Bielema's net worth as of August 2025 stands at an impressive $8 million.
A. Coach Bielema achieved a remarkable 68–24 record and led the University of Wisconsin–Madison to three consecutive Rose Bowl Games during his tenure as head coach from 2006 to 2012.
A. Coach Bielema's initial contract with the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign was valued at $4.2 million for the first year, with provisions for annual raises based on performance and promotional obligations.
A. Jen Hielsberg is the wife of Bret Bielema.
