As Ohio State searches for a new defensive coordinator following Jim Knowles departure to Penn State, several intriguing candidates could fill the role. Here are a few notable names to consider:
Jeff Hafley, Green Bay Packers Defensive Coordinator
Ohio State fans are well-acquainted with Hafley, who served as co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach in 2019 under Ryan Day. The New Jersey native left after one season to become Boston Colleges head coach before transitioning to the NFL in 2024 with the Green Bay Packers. After one year in Green Bay, it remains to be seen if Hafley would be interested in returning to Ohio State to lead its defense once again.
Vic Fangio, Philadelphia Eagles Defensive Coordinator
Fangio is believed to be the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the NFL, with a reported salary of $4.5 million. His experience in the NFL, particularly with the Eagles, makes him a high-profile name in coaching circles. However, with the salary disparity between the NFL and college football, it’s unclear if he would consider returning to the college ranks, where Ohio State offered Knowles a salary of over $2.75 million to become the highest-paid DC in the nation.
Anthony Campanile, Green Bay Packers Linebackers Coach
Campanile, who joined the Packers in 2024 after previous stints with the Dolphins, could also be an interesting option for Ohio State. Before his NFL career, Campanile worked at Boston College, where he crossed paths with Ohio State offensive line coach Justin Frye. His collegiate background could make him an appealing candidate for Day staff.
Mike Siravo, Minnesota Vikings Inside Linebackers Coach
Siravo has deep ties to Boston College, where he coached defensive backs alongside Day in 2011. Following a move to the NFL, Siravo spent time with the Carolina Panthers before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 2023 as the inside linebackers coach. His extensive coaching experience and familiarity with Day coaching style could make him a strong contender for the job.
Randy Bates, Pittsburgh Defensive Coordinator
Bates, an Ohio State alum, has been with Pitt since 2018 and has an extensive coaching background, including a stint at New Hampshire where he worked with Ohio State offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. His Ohio roots and experience in the college ranks could make him a natural fit for the defensive coordinator position at Ohio State.
As Ryan Day navigates this critical hire, these candidates bring diverse experience and strong ties to college football, making them intriguing options to continue Ohio State defensive success.
