Chambana Sun

Alex Panos has been promoted to co-outside linebackers coach for the University of Illinois Fighting Illini, as announced by head coach Bret Bielema. Panos will collaborate with Trent Harris in leading the outside linebackers.

"I am excited for the opportunity to promote Alex from within our program after he has showed tremendous growth working with Coach Jamison, Coach Henry, and a number of our assistant coaches over the last three seasons," Bielema stated. "Alex's ability to see the game is special. Having Alex and Trent lead our outside linebackers for the final four games last season made a huge impact on our defense. We are looking forward to continuing to have them lead the outside linebackers room."

Panos expressed his gratitude: "I am grateful to Coach Bielema, the staff, and the University of Illinois for this opportunity. It is exciting to continue our program's climb to new heights by building our outside linebackers into better players and people. The best is yet to come!"

In 2024, Panos completed his third season with the Fighting Illini staff and first as an assistant defensive line coach. After assisting co-defensive coordinator/defensive line coach Terrance Jamison in reloading the Illinois defensive line over nine games, Panos transitioned to focus on outside linebackers for the final three regular-season games and during their Citrus Bowl appearance. This strategic move contributed significantly as Illinois ended its season with four consecutive victories, tying their single-season wins record at ten and securing a #16 ranking in the final AP Top 25 poll.

The season concluded with a notable 21-17 win against #14 South Carolina in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl—one of Illinois' most significant bowl victories—where they limited South Carolina's scoring well below their average. Gabe Jacas stood out during this game, earning Phil Steele All-American honors following his performance.

Before his promotion, Panos served as a defensive graduate assistant in 2023 after being involved in defensive quality control in 2022. During his initial three years at Champaign, Illinois achieved 23 wins—their highest tally over any three-year period since 1988-90.

Panos played college football at St. Thomas (Minn.), where he was recognized by NFF Hampshire Honor Society as a senior in 2021 while completing his degree in communication and journalism.

Originally from Hartland, Wisconsin, Panos was instrumental at Arrowhead High School’s multiple state title game appearances. His father Joe was an all-American at Wisconsin and captained their Rose Bowl team before becoming a sports agent; his brother George also played college football there and currently scouts for Houston Texans.