Josh Heupel had to make a change on defense after 2025. The unit was just not performing to the level it needed to. He fired Tim Banks and went out and got a top coordinator in Jim Knowles.
George MacIntyre could be Tennessee football's biggest winner this offseason
Knowles is widely regarded as one of the best defensive coaches in all of football. His units perform above expectations, play physically, and have a blue-collar mentality. He uses different types of fronts and coverage disguises to exploit matchups.
In many ways, the hiring of Jim Knowles has already paid dividends. He played a key role in landing a wave of impact transfers from Penn State, players who are expected to contribute right away in Knoxville. That veteran presence should go a long way in helping Tennessee’s defense adjust to and master Knowles’ notoriously tough scheme.
Knowles sat down with Mike Keith, host of The Mike Keith Show, and talked about why he picked Tennessee. In the interview, Knowles said, "I have always been impressed with coach's (Heupel) leadership, and I have followed him from afar, but getting to spend time with him talking football and hearing his philosophy on how to win it definitely sold me."
Knowles also mentioned that his daughter was a Tennessee graduate, that he had always had a "silent pact" with her, and that he hoped that he could end up coaching at Tennessee one day.
Tennessee is poised for a bounce-back in 2026
Knowles also emphasized the importance of staff alignment, which can explain the additions of co-defensive Coordinator and secondary coach Anthony Poindexter and cornerbacks coach Michael Hunter Jr. Knowles mentioned how it puts the Vols ahead, having coaches around him who know his scheme.
With high-level additions like Chaz Coleman, Amare Campbell, and keeping talented guys around like Ty Redmond and Arion Carter, Tennessee is no doubt in a great spot to rebound in 2026.
It's refreshing to see how passionate Knowles is about the University and how much he loves football. Rocky Top is in great hands with Jim Knowles controlling the defense next fall.