Jay Kaiser Director of College Personnel and NFL Liaison | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Jay Kaiser Director of College Personnel and NFL Liaison | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Trent Harris has been appointed as the new outside linebackers coach for the Fighting Illini, announced by head coach Bret Bielema. Harris will collaborate with Alex Panos in managing the outside linebackers room at the University of Illinois.
Bielema expressed his confidence in Harris, stating, "Since I first coached Trent when he was a player for the New England Patriots and then for the New York Giants, he has impressed me with his knowledge of the game, attention to detail, and commitment." He added that both Harris and Panos had shown impressive performances last season during critical games and highlighted Harris's ability to connect with people as a significant asset.
Harris expressed gratitude for his new role: "My wife and I are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the staff at the University of Illinois," he said. He acknowledged Coach Bielema's support throughout his career transitions from New England to New York and now Champaign. "It is an exciting time for Illini football under Coach Bielema's leadership," Harris added.
In 2024, Harris served as assistant outside linebackers coach for Illinois, contributing to one of their most successful seasons. The team finished 10-3, equaling its record wins and securing a #16 ranking in the AP Top 25 after defeating South Carolina in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl.
During his tenure leading the outside linebackers group in late 2024, players like Phil Steele All-American Gabe Jacas excelled under his guidance. Jacas ranked nationally in forced fumbles and sacks while teammates Seth Coleman and Alec Bryant also made significant contributions.
Before coaching at Illinois, Harris played professionally across various leagues including NFL teams like Miami Dolphins and New York Giants where he worked alongside Bielema. In 2023, he led XFL’s Houston Roughnecks with notable stats before joining UFL’s DC Defenders.
A former defensive end from University of Miami (2014-17), Harris contributed significantly during college years culminating into All-ACC Third Team honors in senior year before starting professional career journey post-graduation with Patriots practice squad involvement during Super Bowl LIII season.
He graduated from Miami in 2018 holding a bachelor's degree in public relations; married Abriana since 2021.
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