Rutgers University Athletics

Will Gilkison is in his 22nd season with the Rutgers football program in 2023 and serves as the associate athletic director of football. He previously held the title of director of football operations for nine years after working as director of external operations and as a member of the Rutgers coaching staff. Gilkison was a four-year letterwinner for the Scarlet Knights.

Gilkison’s duties include overseeing the day-to-day operations of the football program, along with logistical and budgetary responsibilities. He also manages team travel, organizes preseason camp and serves as the team’s liaison to other athletic department offices and university branches. Following the unprecedented 2020 season, Gilkison was honored as the FootballScoop Football Operations Director of the Year.

A four-year letterwinner at linebacker with the Scarlet Knights, Gilkison captained the 2005 Insight Bowl team and was the recipient of the Paul Robeson Award, presented annually to the individual whose performance, leadership, and dedication on and off the field during his career has had the greatest impact on Rutgers football.

Gilkison became a member of the staff in 2006 as a student assistant. He was responsible for helping prepare and implement weekly practice schedules. Gilkison also worked as a strength and conditioning assistant during this time, creating and facilitating offseason training programs while instructing players in skill development. In 2008, Gilkison joined the player development staff, serving as a mentor for first- and second-year players. He oversaw the transition of these individuals into the college environment, assisting them with basic life skills, time management, goal setting and prioritizing.

He and his wife Katie currently reside in Union Beach, New Jersey. The couple have six children, Margaret, William, Grace, Gunnar, Harrison and Penelope.