Weeks after Zac Alley departed from Oklahoma in favor of West Virginia, the Sooners are rumored to be targeting Ohio State's accomplished defensive coordinator.

Speaking at media day ahead of the College Football Playoff national championship game on Saturday, Knowles sidestepped the question. Knowles was the third-highest paid assistant in college football in 2024, earning $2.2 million. He remains under contract through 2026. Oklahoma paid Alley $850,000.

Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles was asked about rumors connecting him to an opening with Oklahoma football. Here's what he said.

Ohio State DC Jim Knowles was dismissive of job offer rumors ahead of College Football Playoff National Championship Game vs. Notre Dame

So for the last few weeks, the Sooners have been without a defensive coordinator and an assistant general manager, yet have landed some big-time defensive recruits. However, even