Share and Follow
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – The Illinois football program is actively shaping its defensive coaching lineup for the 2026 season.
In a recent announcement by Illinois Athletics, Roger Cooper has been appointed as the new inside linebackers coach. Cooper previously served under Bobby Hauck, the newly appointed defensive coordinator for the Illini, at Montana from 2022 to 2025.
“Coach Cooper has built a commendable career on the defensive front as a coordinator, position coach, and player,” stated Illinois head coach Bret Bielema in a release. “His extensive experience will be a significant asset to our program, benefiting both our inside linebackers and the overall defense.”
Archie McDaniel will remain with the team, transitioning from his role coaching inside linebackers to working with outside linebackers. This change follows former outside linebackers coach Trent Harris’s move to a position with Duke.
Before his tenure at Montana, Cooper dedicated nearly ten years to building his career at Idaho State.
Illinois also announced the hiring of a new defensive secondary coach on Friday. Plus, Bielema confirmed the promotion of Chris Hurd to special teams coordinator on Thursday.
A running backs coach is expected to be announced within the week, Bielema said on Thursday.