At College of Idaho: Tanner Forkner joined the coaching staff in 2026, making it his first collegiate coaching experience. He is currently working on the defensive side of the ball as a defensive analyst. In addition to assisting with multiple position groups, Forkner focuses his efforts on film breakdown/analytics, prospect evaluation, and player development. 

Prior to College of Idaho: Prior to joining the Yotes, Forkner gained valuable coaching experience at the high school level. At the age of 18, Forkner became the head coach of Del Norte High School’s JV football program which he led to an undefeated season. He also spent two years as an assistant coach at Nampa High School. 

Personal: Forkner was also a student-athlete at the College of Idaho where he graduated with a double major. He received his bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Philosophy. He then went on to get his master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. He began his collegiate playing career at College of the Redwoods where he earned All-Conference honors in 2022 and All-Region honors in 2023 playing linebacker. Once at the College of Idaho, he suffered a series of injuries that ultimately ended his playing career despite his efforts to battle through them. He and his wife Jill live in Caldwell with their dog Ace, and the three of them love to be outdoors!