Jim Knowles Leaves Ohio State to Become Penn State's Defensive Coordinator on Record-Breaking Deal

The Philadelphia native departs after leading Ohio State's top-ranked defense to a national championship, signing a $3.1M annual contract with Penn State.

• Jim Knowles is finalizing a three-year contract worth $3.1 million annually, making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football history.
• Knowles led Ohio State's defense to a national championship in 2024, with the Buckeyes ranking first in both scoring defense (12.9 points per game) and total defense (254.6 yards per game).
• Penn State pursued Knowles to replace Tom Allen, who left for Clemson, signaling the Nittany Lions' commitment to competing for a national title in 2025.
• Ohio State reportedly offered Knowles a raise to $2.75 million annually, but Penn State's offer exceeded that, and Knowles will return to his home state of Pennsylvania.
• The move leaves Ohio State searching for a new defensive coordinator as they face a major transition with only three defensive starters returning next season.

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