Jim Knowles Expected to Depart Penn State Amid Coaching Changes

Jim Knowles's brief tenure at Penn State is seemingly coming to an end due to the arrival of Matt Campbell as the new head coach. Campbell's potential hiring of Jon Heacock, with whom he has a successful history at Iowa State, adds complexity to the situation. Knowles, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at Ohio State, joined Penn State with high expectations, but his defense's performance in 2025 was inconsistent. The potential transition to a 3-3-5 defensive scheme, given Heacock's background, could further impact the team's defensive structure. Penn State owes Knowles over $7 million on the remaining two years of his contract, leading to buyout negotiations.

The arrival of new head coach Matt Campbell and the potential hiring of Jon Heacock, Campbell's former defensive coordinator, have created uncertainty about Knowles's role.

Knowles has two years remaining on his contract, with Penn State owing him over $7 million.

Knowles is reportedly negotiating his buyout with Penn State and is expected to become the defensive coordinator for Tennessee.

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