Western Illinois University Athletics

Bonner enters his third season on the Western Illinois football staff and second as Outside Linebackers Coach, continuing to make an impact on the Leathernecks’ defensive development.

In 2025, Bonner played a key role in mentoring a breakout true freshman who finished second on the team in sacks and third in tackles for loss, earning All-Conference recognition. His unit built on a strong foundation established in 2024, his first season leading the outside linebackers, when he developed a Phil Steele OVC–Big South Third Team All-Conference selection who led the team in both tackles and tackles for loss.

Bonner began his collegiate coaching career at Western Illinois in 2023 as a graduate assistant working with the defensive backs. During that season, he helped develop a corner back who went on to sign professionally with the Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League (CFL).

A former standout at Arkansas State, Bonner brings a player’s perspective to his coaching approach. A versatile defensive back and linebacker, he was a three-time team captain and earned the program’s “Consistency in Performance” defensive award. Bonner was also named a College Football News Preseason Top 30 Sun Belt Conference player and earned All-Conference honors during his career. Starting as a true freshman, he helped lead the Red Wolves to three bowl game appearances.