The Tennessee football program finished the regular season 8-4, a result largely expected after losing five-star QB Nico Iamaleava late in the spring. However, the defense struggled mightily, prompting head coach Josh Heupel to make a significant change by parting ways with defensive coordinator Tim Banks.
“Tim Banks will not return as the Tennessee Defensive Coordinator as Josh Heupel goes in a different direction for 2026,” Vols reporter Austin Price posted earlier in the week.
One name that surfaced as a potential replacement was Ryan Walters, the current DC for the Washington Huskies. This move would have made sense, as Walters is someone Heupel is familiar with. However, Tennessee now appears likely to hire Penn State DC Jim Knowles.
“A deal at Tennessee is not finalized, per sources. But Knowles has emerged as the target and that's his expected landing spot. CBS first linked Knowles and Tennessee. Penn State owes him more than $7 million on the two years remaining on his deal, per his contract,” ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported.
This decision represents an unusual hire for Heupel, who typically brings in someone he knows well. The move could indicate that Heupel is aware of the pressure he faces heading into the 2026 season.
“Honestly, when I said Monday... 'Hey, Jim Knowles could be on the market, and if Tennessee really wants to go big and really go for it, go hire him,' I absolutely did not think Tennessee would actually do it. This is a big moment in Josh Heupel's career, and he understands it,” WBIR’s Wes Rucker wrote.
Another disappointing season in 2026, following a playoff appearance in 2024, could create frustration for both the fanbase and the university. For the first time in his tenure at Tennessee, Heupel is feeling significant pressure.
It is no longer just about familiarity; the focus is on making hires that will help the program achieve success. While hiring Walters would have been the familiar choice, Heupel’s potential job security likely compelled him to make a bold, winning move.