Penn State's Jim Knowles Set to Join Tennessee as Defensive Coordinator Amid Buyout Talks
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Penn State's defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is reportedly leaving for a similar position at Tennessee, according to multiple media reports. The negotiations for Knowles' buyout, estimated to be over $7 million due to the remaining two years of his contract, are currently underway. Knowles, a Pennsylvania native, had a successful stint at Ohio State, where he played a crucial role in their national title-winning season in 2024. The Buckeyes boasted the No. 1 defense in the country, giving up just 12.9 points and 254.6 yards per game. Knowles joined Penn State in 2025, becoming the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the nation. However, with the introduction of Matt Campbell as the new head coach on Monday, Knowles is expected to move on. He will reportedly replace Tim Banks, who was fired from the Tennessee defensive coordinator position on Monday. Banks, who had led the Vols' defense since 2021, struggled this season despite allowing just 16.1 points per game in the previous year. His defense allowed 28.8 points per game, and the team's high-scoring offense made it difficult for him to succeed. Despite his initial success, Banks' contract extension through 2027 was not enough to save his position.
