Home / Sports / Knowles Bolts Penn State for Tennessee Coaching Job
Knowles Bolts Penn State for Tennessee Coaching Job
11 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Jim Knowles is set to join Tennessee as defensive coordinator.
- He is currently negotiating a buyout with Penn State.
- Knowles previously coached at Ohio State and Oklahoma State.
Tennessee is reportedly nearing a deal to bring Jim Knowles aboard as its new defensive coordinator. Knowles, who is negotiating his exit from Penn State, is expected to take on the same position with the Volunteers. His previous contract with Penn State paid him over $3 million annually.
Knowles has a strong track record, having been the defensive coordinator for Ohio State's national championship team and a multiple-time finalist for the Broyles Award. His move comes after Penn State recently hired a new head coach. He is set to replace Tim Banks, whose tenure ended with Tennessee's defense allowing 28.8 points per game this season.
The Volunteers concluded their season with an 8-4 record, most recently suffering a 45-24 loss to Vanderbilt. They are scheduled to play Illinois in the Music City Bowl on December 30th.
