When it comes to the UFL to NFL pipeline, it’s more than just the players. This week, the New York Jets hired Collin Bauer as a Defensive Assistant – who recently served as the Michigan Panthers Defensive Coordinator.
It’s official: Former Michigan Panthers Defensive Coordinator, Collin Bauer, has been hired as a Defensive Assistant with the New York #Jets.
Bauer has spent the last three seasons in the USFL/#UFL. His defense helped lead Michigan to a Championship appearance in 2025. pic.twitter.com/y2rFv34e1y
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) February 12, 2026
Bauer has been with the Michigan Panthers for the last three seasons. Mike Nolan, who served as Michigan’s Head Coach from 2023-2025, gave Collin his first opportunity at the professional level. Previously, Bauer was on Towson’s staff with the Tigers.
In 2024, Collin was promoted from Defensive Line coach to Defensive Coordinator with the Panthers. He retained that role for the last two seasons. Both years, the Panthers made the playoffs, and statistically performed quite well. 2025 resulted in a Championship appearance – one that ultimately fell flat with all of the injuries that had piled up defensively.
Collin Bauer’s defense saw a lot of success over the years. There were multiple All-UFL selections, and NFL signings, including:
DT Daniel Wise (All-UFL, 2024)
DT Walter Palmore (Signed by Carolina, 2024)
DE Breeland Speaks (All-UFL & UFL DPOY, 2024, signed by Jacksonville)
LB Frank Ginda (Signed by Chargers, 2024)
DB Nate Brooks (All-UFL, 2024 – signed by Cincinnati)
S Kai Nacua (All-UFL, 2024)
DB Kedrick Whitehead (All-UFL, 2025)
S Arnold Tarpley (All-UFL, 2025)
DB Keni-H Lovely (Signed by Jacksonville, 2025)
DB D.J. Miller Jr. (Signed by Detroit, 2025)
EDGE Kenny Willekes (Signed by Pittsburgh, 2025)
Now, Bauer moves up the ranks. With Mike Nolan departing the UFL, Collin now lands with the Jets – his first NFL opportunity.
We at Pro Football Newsroom wish Collin the absolute best in his new gig. The spring scene will certainly miss him – but the Jets got a good one.
What are your thoughts on Collin Bauer earning a job with the New York Jets? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
