NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State football head coach announced on Thursday that assistant coach Mickey Turner has been elevated to the position of offensive coordinator. In addition, he announced several other new coaching title designations as part of a staff adjustment for the upcoming 2026 season.
"Mickey has been a key member of our offensive coaching staff the past three seasons and has been instrumental in our success in the passing game," Spack said. "He's a bright offensive mind and knows our personnel well. I know he will collaborate well with the rest of our staff, and we look forward to his leadership."
Turner is in his fourth year as part of the Redbird coaching staff, having worked with the wide receivers for the past three seasons as well as serving as the program's co-special teams coordinator. Working closely with the Redbird passing game, Turner has helped develop Daniel Sobkowicz into one of the best receivers in FCS football and in program history. A 2025 All-American and First-Team All-MVFC selection, Sobkowicz finished his career as ISU all-time leader in touchdown receptions (41), receptions (252) and is second in receiving yards (3,559). Turner also helped mentor 2025 MVFC Freshman of the Year Luke Mailander, who finished the year with 44 catches for 671 yards and four touchdowns.
"Illinois State is a special place, and it's an honor to step into the role of Offensive Coordinator here," Turner stated. "I'm thankful to Coach Spack and the administration for trusting me with this responsibility. This program means a lot to me, and I'm excited to continue working with a talented group of players and coaches. Let's get to work!"
Prior to coming to Illinois State, Turner spent eight years as member of the Wisconsin coaching staff working with the Badger tight ends and fullbacks under head coach Paul Chryst.
Here is a full list of staff adjustments announced by Spack for the upcoming season:
•   Mickey Turner – Offensive Coordinator
•   C.J. Irvin – Assistant Head Coach/Run Game Coordinator/TE, FB, Assistant OL/Pro LiaisonÂ
•   Kye Stewart – Associate Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator/OLB
•   Dru Richardson – Assistant Coach/Special Teams Assistant/DB
•   Mike Grant – Assistant Coach/RB/Returners
•   Jake Barro –Defensive Quality Control/Assistant General Manager
•   Max Caltagerone – Defensive Recruiting Coordinator
•   Zach Bodway – Assistant Offensive Recruiting Coordinator/Special Teams Assistant
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