Justin Hocker joined the Illinois College football coaching staff as an assistant coach working with the Blueboys' wide receivers and tight ends in 2026.

Hocker arrives on the Hilltop after serving as a graduate assistant coach at Benedictine University during the spring of 2025, where he worked with the Eagles' wide receivers and tight ends. In that role, he directed individual position drills, conducted film sessions, and assisted with player development while contributing to opponent scouting reports, offensive game planning, and weekly practice preparation. He also coordinated recruiting operations, including prospect evaluations and campus visits, while overseeing academic accountability and player development initiatives.

During the 2025 season, Hocker also served as the varsity wide receivers and tight ends coach at West Chicago Community High School. He focused on skill development, route concepts, and football IQ while assisting with offensive scouting reports, film breakdown, and game preparation. On game days, he served as the booth coach, providing in-game communication and offensive adjustments.

Prior to beginning his coaching career, Hocker was a standout student-athlete at Benedictine University from 2021-24. A two-time All-Conference selection at tight end and wide receiver, he served as a team captain and earned the program's Most Improved Player award. He was also actively involved in recruiting efforts, hosting prospective student-athletes during campus visits.

Before transferring to Benedictine, Hocker spent two seasons as a student assistant with the University of Illinois football program from 2019-21. There, he supported daily football operations, practice organization, and sideline management while gaining valuable experience in a Division I program.

Hocker earned his Master of Business Administration from Benedictine University in 2025 and also received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Benedictine in 2023, graduating cum laude.