He was working on an expired contract.
The Tennessee Volunteers will retain defensive coordinator Tim Banks this offseason, according to ESPN’s Chris Low. Banks was working on an expiring contract as the two sides negotiated an extension. Banks never came off the recruiting trail, and there never really seemed to be any doubt that a deal would get done.
Today, per Low, that extension is being finalized.
Tim Banks and Tennessee are finalizing an extension for him to remain as @Vol_Football’s defensive coordinator, sources tell ESPN. Banks, a Broyles Award finalist, led one of the top defenses in college football last season, holding 11 of 13 opponents under 20 points.
— Chris Low (@ClowESPN) January 15, 2025
Banks has built his unit from the ground up over the last four seasons. Tennessee grew into one of the best defenses in the country this past season, finishing sixth in the FBS in points allowed per game.
The veteran coordinator made $1.5 million during the 2024 season. There were some rumors involving his name with the Miami and Clemson openings, but nothing ever materialized.
Josh Heupel has largely kept most of his core staff together outside of a name or two. Keeping Banks around is big for the continuity of the program, particularly after Tennessee made such big strides on that side of the ball this season.
Attention now turns to defensive backs coach Willie Martinez and outside linebackers/special teams coordinator Mike Ekeler, who are also working on expiring contracts as we speak.