Jordan Thomas named Illinois' defensive line coach/run game coordinator

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Jordan Thomas has been named Illinois' defensive line coach/run game coordinator, head coach Bret Bielema announced.

Thomas has 10 years of coaching experience in college football with Boston College, San Diego State and the NFL's Cleveland Browns.

"Coach Thomas is a great fit for our Illini FamILLy with an immediate understanding of our defensive system. He is a talented leader with experience in our defense as both a player and coach, plus three years of developing defensive linemen in the NFL," Bielema said.

"I am extremely excited and thankful for the opportunity to work with Coach Bielema and this awesome staff," Thomas said in a statement. "It is an honor to represent the Fighting Illini and work in a proud program with a decorated football history."

Thomas spent the 2025 season as the defensive line coach at Boston College, following three seasons as the assistant defensive line coach for the Browns from 2022-24.

Thomas helped the 2023 Browns lead the NFL in total defense (270.2 yards per game), passing defense (164.7), third down defense (29.1%) and fewest first downs allowed (253).

Thomas played at San Diego State from 2010-13. He was named San Diego State's Defensive Lineman of the Year in 2013.

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