Penn State needs a new defensive coordinator for the third time in four years, as Tom Allen leaves for Clemson after one season with the Nittany Lions. Expect James Franklin and the Nittany Lions to evaluate external and internal candidates for the job
Penn State is in need of a new defensive coordinator for the third time in four years, as Tom Allen departs for Clemson after just one season with the Nittany Lions. With the program aiming to be a College Football Playoff contender heading into the 2025 season, this is a crucial hiring decision for head coach James Franklin.
Now in his twelfth year at the helm of Penn State, Franklin will consider both external and internal candidates for the role. His last two defensive coordinator hires came from head coaching positions, and he has consistently shown an interest in bringing in coordinators who can function as “head coaches” for their units.
Before Allen and Manny Diaz, the Nittany Lions also found defensive success with Brent Pry, who had no head coaching experience until he accepted the job at Virginia Tech in November 2021. Franklin takes pride in his program’s ability to maintain strong defensive performance; last season, PSU ranked seventh nationally in yards allowed per game (294.7) and eighth in points allowed per game (16.5).
The search is ongoing for someone to lead a talented Nittany Lions defense that has considerable experience returning. As with any coaching search, this is a dynamic process, and Franklin will likely keep details under wraps.
Looking ahead, here are several candidates and important points to consider as Penn State evaluates options for the defensive coordinator position…
The Penn State Nittany Lions are once again in the market for a new defensive coordinator, as Tom Allen is reportedly set to leave for the same position at Clemson. After a successful season in which his defense ranked among the best in the nation, Allen’s departure marks another significant transition for head coach James Franklin, who will need to identify a suitable replacement.
Tom Allen’s Impact on Penn State
Tom Allen joined Penn State as co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his time as head coach at Indiana. Under his guidance, the Nittany Lions’ defense excelled, ranking seventh in total defense in 2024. However, despite these accomplishments, Allen’s unit faced challenges against top-tier opponents like Oregon and Notre Dame, which ultimately led to disappointing losses. His decision to leave for Clemson, where he will serve alongside Mickey Conn, reflects both personal and professional motivations, including family considerations that bring him closer to his daughters in the Carolinas.
The Search for a New Defensive Coordinator
With Allen’s exit imminent, Franklin must act quickly to fill the void. Here are some potential candidates who could step into the role:
- Anthony Poindexter: Currently serving as co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach at Penn State, Poindexter has been with the program since 2021. His experience coaching talented safeties like Jaquan Brisker and KJ Winston positions him as a strong internal candidate. Promoting Poindexter would ensure continuity within the defensive scheme.
- Deion Barnes: The defensive line coach at Penn State has garnered attention as a rising star in coaching circles. Barnes has developed several NFL-caliber players during his tenure but may lack the experience needed for a full defensive coordinator role just yet.
- Hank Haines: After leading Indiana’s defense to significant improvements this past season, Haines has emerged as a candidate worth considering. His success in turning around the Hoosiers’ defensive performance could appeal to Franklin as he seeks fresh ideas.
- Jim Leonhard: A former Wisconsin defensive coordinator and interim head coach, Leonhard has been a sought-after name in coaching searches. His recent experience with NFL-level talent makes him an intriguing option for Penn State.
- Aaron Henry: The current defensive coordinator at Illinois, Henry has shown promise in his role and could bring an aggressive style of play that aligns with Franklin’s vision for Penn State’s defense.
What Lies Ahead for Penn State Football
As the Nittany Lions prepare for another season with high expectations—having made their debut in the expanded College Football Playoff—Franklin’s choice of defensive coordinator will be crucial. With key players returning and a window of opportunity open, finding someone who can maintain and build upon Allen’s success will be essential.
In conclusion, while Tom Allen’s departure is a significant loss for Penn State football, it also presents an opportunity for growth and innovation within the program. The upcoming weeks will be critical as Franklin navigates this transition and seeks to secure a candidate who can uphold the tradition of excellence associated with Nittany Lions football.
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