Illinois Football Names Jordan Thomas Defensive Line Coach

Bret Bielema appears to have finalized his coaching staff for the 2026 season. The Illinois football program officially announced the hiring of Boston College DL coach Jordan Thomas as their new Defensive Line Coach and Run Game Coordinator.  Certainly, a much-needed solid addition for Illinois, as the program works through continued turnover following changes within Aaron Henry’s defensive unit.

The 10-year veteran steps into the role as Illinois’ defensive line coach and run game coordinator, which was previously held by Terrance Jamison, who recently departed for the NFL after five seasons in Champaign to become the defensive line coach of the Buffalo Bills.

Thomas’ past experience

Thomas brings a diverse background that spans both the college and NFL levels. Most recently, he spent a season as the defensive line coach at Boston College in 2025. Prior to that, he spent three seasons with the Cleveland Browns as an assistant defensive line coach. Undoubtedly, his time in the pros has fostered unmatched experience. In fact, Thomas worked with DPOY Myles Garrett in one of the league’s top defensive units.

Thomas additionally spent time coaching at his alma mater, San Diego State, under Rocky Long, who is widely regarded as a pioneer of the 3-3-5 defense. That familiarity with the system is a plus for the Illini, as Coach Long also introduced the scheme to new defensive coordinator Bobby Hauck during his time with the Aztecs from 2015-17, who intends to implement the system at Illinois.

With Jamison’s departure creating a void in leadership along the defensive front and in recruiting, Thomas’s combination of collegiate coaching and NFL experience, as well as his deep-rooted knowledge of the 3-3-5 defense, makes him a strong addition to Bret Bielema’s 2026 staff. His time in the NFL should also give him an edge in recruiting, helping him connect with prospects about his work with Myles Garrett, Quinton Jefferson, Za’Darius Smith, and others.

Bret Bielema on New D-Line Coach Jordan Thomas

“Coach Thomas is a great fit for our Illini FamILLy with an immediate understanding of our defensive system,” said Bielema. “He is a talented leader with experiences in our defense as both a player and coach, plus three years of developing defensive linemen in the NFL. We are excited to welcome Coach Thomas to our staff.”

It’s worth noting that Thomas is only Bielema’s second defensive line coach since taking over the Illinois Football program. Jamison, the first, joined Bielema’s original staff from Purdue in 2021, where he spent five seasons developing the Illini’s defensive line.

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