Tennessee Athletics has hired Michael Hunter Jr. as the Vols’ new cornerbacks coach. Hunter joins the staff after two years at Ohio State, where he served as an assistant defensive backs coach and was part of the team that won the 2024 national title. He reunites with Tennessee’s new defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, who also led Ohio State’s defense that season. Hunter replaces Willie Martinez, who concluded nine seasons with Tennessee over two separate terms, WATE reported.
At Ohio State, Hunter worked alongside Knowles to develop a defense that ranked first in the FBS for fewest yards and points allowed per game. In a WATE interview, Hunter expressed excitement about joining Tennessee and thanked head coach Josh Heupel and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles for the opportunity. Hunter is expected to focus on player development on and off the field as the Vols begin a new chapter following the departure of Willie Martinez, who served under Heupel for the past five seasons.
Tennessee football has further strengthened its coaching staff with the addition of three defensive assistants. Anthony Poindexter joins as co-defensive coordinator and secondary coach, bringing experience from Penn State, where he served as co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach. Andrew Jackson is hired as the LEO coach after working as an assistant with Penn State’s defensive line. According to a release by Vols Wire, these additions, led by Jim Knowles—appointed following the 2025 season—aim to revamp Tennessee’s defensive strategies.
Jim Knowles, recognized for developing aggressive and disciplined defenses, was appointed Tennessee’s defensive coordinator following his 2025 season with Penn State. In a statement reported by Vols Wire, head coach Josh Heupel said Knowles was the top priority in the hiring process and praised his defenses for being physical, well-prepared, and adaptable against complex offenses. Heupel’s comments highlight expectations for Knowles’ defensive approach as the Vols prepare for the upcoming season.
CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz noted the strong working relationship between Knowles and Hunter, which began at Oklahoma State and continued at Ohio State, highlighting Tennessee’s strategy to rebuild its coaching staff around proven collaborations. As per 247Sports, Hunter’s experience with high-performing defenses is expected to strengthen the Vols’ coaching ranks and signal a potential defensive resurgence as the team looks to replicate past success.
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