Koko Penn State is on the brink of a groundbreaking deal to bring in Ohio State celebrated defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles. According to sources, Knowles is finalizing a three-year contract worth $3.1 million annually, setting a record as the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football history. This monumental move positions Knowles as the first coordinator in the sport to earn a base salary exceeding $3 million.
Knowles, who earned $2.2 million in base salary last season at Ohio State, nearly hit the $3 million mark after performance bonuses tied to the Buckeyes national championship run. Ohio State reportedly extended an offer to retain him as the highest-paid coordinator in the country, surpassing Michigan Wink Martindale and LSUBlake Baker, both slated to make $2.5 million next season. Notre Dame and Oklahoma also pursued Knowles, but Penn State appears to have won the race.
A Game-Changer for Penn State Defense
This strategic hire strengthens Penn State standing in the Big Ten and underscores their bid for the national title in 2025. Knowles tenure at Ohio State speaks volumes; he guided the Buckeyes to lead the nation in total defense and scoring defense in 2024, conceding just 12.9 points per game. Under his leadership, the team ranked third in both run defense and passing yards allowed.
At Penn State, Knowles will inherit a wealth of talent, including defensive standouts like linemen Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zane Durant, cornerback A.J. Harris, and linebacker Tony Rojas. With offensive stars such as quarterback Drew Allar, tailbacks Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, and a robust offensive line, the Nittany Lions have every reason to aim high in the coming season.
A Veteran Strategist with a Proven Track Record
Replacing Clemson-bound Tom Allen, Knowles brings decades of experience to Happy Valley. A Philadelphia native, he began his coaching career at Cornell, where he also played, eventually serving as the team head coach from 2004 to 2009. His defensive expertise blossomed during stints at Duke (2010 2017) and Oklahoma State (20182021) before joining Ohio State in 2022.
At Ohio State, Knowles consistently delivered top-tier defensive units, with his 2024 squad representing his finest work. Eight players from that defense are expected to be drafted, including the entire starting defensive line.
What Next for Ohio State?
While Penn State gains a defensive mastermind, Ohio State faces the challenge of replacing Knowles. The Buckeyes will rely on three returning starters, all of whom are projected to shine in the upcoming season. Safety Caleb Downs, a first-team All-Big Ten honoree, is a top 2026 NFL draft prospect, while linebacker Sonny Styles and cornerback Davison Igbinosun are poised to cement their legacies as elite players.
This move reshapes the dynamics of the Big Ten and elevates Penn State as a formidable contender for the national championship. The college football world will be watching closely as Jim Knowles begins a new chapter in his storied career.
