Illini Football Targeting Montana Assistant Roger Cooper to 2026 Coaching Staff

Roger Cooper, a four-year assistant coach to new Illinois defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck, is being considered as an option Bret Bielema’s coaching staff.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

February 11, 2026

(Cover photo courtesy Montana Athletics)

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The pipeline of former Montana State assistant coaches interested in following Bobby Hauck to Illinois is fully active.

Multiple sources have confirmed to IlliniGuys.com that Roger Cooper, a four-year assistant coach to new Illinois defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck, is being considered to join Bret Bielema’s coaching staff in Champaign-Urbana.

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