Jim Panagos

Biography

Jim Panagos is in his fourth season as the defensive tackles coach at Kansas after joining Lance Leipold’s staff on February 1, 2022. Panagos' defensive line unit has seen considerable improvements in recent years, as Kansas' defense held opposing offenses to 153.5 rushing yards per game in 2024, which were the fewest rushing yards allowed since 2009 (138.3). In addition, the Jayhawks recorded 28 sacks in 2024, which were the most in a season since the 2016 season. Kansas finished the season ranked third in the Big 12 Conference in sacks per game (2.33). The 2023 season was another step forward for Kansas Football as the Jayhawks had a two-win improvement in the regular season, finishing 8-4 to secure a winning record for the first time since 2008. The eight wins are the most by KU in the regular season since 2007 and the Jayhawks have claimed consecutive bowl berths for only the second time in program history. In his first season at Kansas, Panagos assisted as the Jayhawks qualified for a bowl game for the first time since 2008 and reached the Associated Press Top 25 for the first time since 2009. Kansas started the season 5-0 and hosted ESPN’s College Gameday for the first time in program history. His veteran group finished with 9.0 sacks and 22.5 tackles for loss on the season. Following the year, Caleb Sampson signed as an undrafted free agent with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts. Panagos came to Kansas with more than 20 years of collegiate and NFL coaching experience. He sp