CBS NEWS: Jim Knowles Joins Penn State as Defensive Coordinator on Three-Year, $3.1 Million Contract
In a significant move for Penn State football, the Nittany Lions have hired Jim Knowles as their new defensive coordinator, signing him to a lucrative three-year, $3.1 million contract. Knowles, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at Ohio State, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of transforming defenses into elite units.
The hiring of Knowles comes as Penn State looks to strengthen its defensive capabilities and continue its rise as one of the premier programs in the Big Ten. After a successful tenure at Ohio State, where he guided the Buckeyes’ defense to national prominence, Knowles’ arrival in Happy Valley signals Penn State’s intent to build a formidable defense capable of competing with the best teams in college football.
Penn State’s defensive performance has been solid in recent seasons, but the Nittany Lions have faced challenges in maintaining consistency and shutting down high-powered offenses in crucial moments. With Knowles now leading the defensive unit, expectations are high for the Nittany Lions to improve upon their defensive rankings and take the next step toward a Big Ten title and potentially a national championship.
In an official statement, Penn State’s athletic director Pat Kraft expressed excitement about the hiring. “We are thrilled to welcome Jim Knowles to Penn State,” said Kraft. “He is one of the best defensive minds in the game, and his ability to develop players and build championship-caliber defenses is exactly what we need. Jim’s experience at both the collegiate and professional levels will be invaluable as we continue to grow as a program.”
Knowles, who has had a distinguished career in coaching, spent the last three seasons at Ohio State, where he transformed the Buckeyes’ defense from a liability into one of the most feared units in the nation. Under his guidance, Ohio State’s defense saw marked improvements in areas such as scoring defense, total defense, and turnovers forced. Knowles is particularly known for his aggressive, pressure-heavy schemes that prioritize creating chaos for opposing quarterbacks and forcing turnovers, making his hiring a strategic move for Penn State.
Before his time at Ohio State, Knowles was the defensive coordinator at Duke, where he garnered national recognition for his work with the Blue Devils’ defense, helping them achieve some of their best defensive seasons in recent memory. His success at Duke caught the attention of top programs across the country, eventually leading to his move to Ohio State.
“I’m excited to join a program with such a rich tradition and passionate fan base,” Knowles said upon his hiring. “Penn State is a special place, and I look forward to working with our players to build a defense that will compete at the highest level. We have the talent here to be a dominant force, and I’m committed to bringing the same level of success I’ve had at previous stops.”
The contract’s $3.1 million salary, which ranks among the highest for defensive coordinators in college football, underscores the level of importance placed on Knowles’ hiring. It also reflects Penn State’s commitment to investing in its football program and ensuring the Nittany Lions remain competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of college football.
With Knowles now leading the charge, Penn State fans are eagerly anticipating the changes he will bring to the defense. Known for his ability to develop star players, Knowles’ impact on Penn State’s defensive recruits and returning players will be one of the most closely watched aspects of the 2025 season. His defensive philosophies, which emphasize versatility and aggression, should provide an exciting and dynamic brand of football for the Nittany Lions in the years to come.
As Penn State enters the 2025 season, the addition of Jim Knowles to the coaching staff has the potential to propel the Nittany Lions into the upper echelon of college football, with an elite defense that can match their powerful offense.