The 2018 Western Illinois Leathernecks football team represented Western Illinois University in the 2018 NCAA Division I FCS football season.

They were led by first-year head coach Jared Elliott and played their home games at Hanson Field.

The MVFC released their preseason poll on July 29, 2018, with the Leathernecks predicted to finish in seventh place.

[2] The Leathernecks placed five at six positions players on the preseason all-MVFC teams.

[3] Offense 2nd team Sean McGuire – QB Steve McShane – RB Defense 1st team Khalen Saunders – DL Justin Fitzpatrick – DB Steve McShane – RS 2nd team Quentin Moon – DB