The Hoosiers’ defensive leader has reportedly agreed to a new deal to remain with the program.
Some good news came in the midst of a rough stretch for much of Indiana athletics as of late.
Bryant Haines, the Hoosiers’ defensive coordinator and reportedly a target for the same role with Penn State that has since gone to Jim Knowles of Ohio State, has finalized a new contract to remain in Bloomington, per reporting from Matt Zenitz of 247Sports.
Indiana has finalized a new contract with defensive coordinator Bryant Haines, sources tell @CBSSports/@247Sports.
Haines, a Broyles Award finalist, led the way as Indiana ranked No. 2 nationally in total defense this year and was key in IU’s run to 11 wins and a Playoff berth.… pic.twitter.com/nAjKiYLMtv
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 26, 2025
Haines, a finalist for the Broyles Award, honoring the nation’s top assistant coach, was the architect of Indiana’s impressive defensive showing this past season after following Curt Cignetti from James Madison last offseason.
He’d previously signed a memorandum of understanding boosting his pay. The new deal comes in the wake of openings at the previously mentioned Penn State and Notre Dame. He was already the highest-paid assistant in program history prior to the season.
Haines’ group finished the season ranked No. 2 nationally in total defense with just 256.3 yards allowed per game.