Johnson, a Lions assistant since 1996 since 2000, could also act as co-defensive coordinator. Illinois coach Ron Zook also needs to replace his top recruiter, former offensive coordinator Mike Locksley, who took the head-coaching job at New Mexico.

Johnson recruits in the Mid-Atlantic area and has been Penn State's best recruiter of late. He was chiefly responsible for landing No. 1 prospect Derrick Williams in 2005 and got nine of 23 oral commitments from the Class of 2009.

Illinois spokesman Kent Brown declined comment.

Meanwhile, the Associated Press reported that Penn State police are looking for the vandals who cut the bronze glasses off a 900-pound statue of head coach Joe Paterno that stands near Beaver Stadium.

"We're hopeful that someone contacts us if they have any information on who may be involved," Deputy Chief Tyrone Parham said. The school plans to replace the glasses, although assistant athletic director Jeff Nelson said the cost is unknown.

Also, the Rose Bowl released a statement saying officials were disappointed that Paterno failed to allow reporters into the team's locker room after the 38-24 loss to USC, as per Bowl Championship Series procedure.

Nittany notes. Running backs Evan Royster (left knee) and Stephfon Green (right ankle) and tackle Dennis Landolt (left knee) are expected to recover from injuries suffered in the Rose Bowl in time for the start of spring practice in late March, according to Nelson. . . . Nelson said that the three players considering leaving early have yet to inform the team of their decisions. Defensive ends Aaron Maybin and Maurice Evans and defensive tackle Jared Odrick have until next Thursday to declare themselves eligible for April's NFL draft.