Iowa State Loses Defensive Coordinators Ahead of New Season

Departures of Kyle Green and JR Blount leave big shoes to fill for Cyclones football program.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:00pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Iowa State University's football team is facing a major shakeup on the defensive side of the ball, as the program has lost both of its highly regarded defensive coordinators, Kyle Green and JR Blount. Green was instrumental in developing the Cyclones' aggressive, ball-pressure defense, while Blount just accepted a head coaching job at the University of San Diego.

Why it matters

The loss of these two key defensive minds is a significant blow to an Iowa State program that has built its identity around a stifling, disruptive defense in recent years. Replacing their strategic leadership and player development skills will be a major challenge as the Cyclones look to maintain their defensive excellence and competitiveness in the Big 12 conference.

The details

Green had been Iowa State's defensive coordinator for the past five seasons, during which time the Cyclones' defense consistently ranked among the best in the Big 12. His aggressive, high-pressure schemes were a major factor in the team's success. Meanwhile, Blount had served as co-defensive coordinator alongside Green for the past three years, and was widely credited for his work with the secondary and overall game-planning.

  • Green has been Iowa State's defensive coordinator since 2021.
  • Blount was co-defensive coordinator for the past 3 seasons.
  • Blount accepted the head coaching job at the University of San Diego on March 28, 2026.

The players

Kyle Green

Iowa State's defensive coordinator for the past 5 seasons, known for developing an aggressive, ball-pressure defense.

JR Blount

Iowa State's co-defensive coordinator for the past 3 seasons, credited for his work with the secondary and game-planning.

University of San Diego

A private Catholic university located in San Diego, California, where JR Blount has accepted a head coaching position.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kyle and JR have been the backbone of our defense for years. Their departures leave a huge void that we'll need to fill quickly.”

— Matt Campbell, Head Coach, Iowa State Cyclones

What’s next

Iowa State will need to move quickly to hire new defensive coordinators who can maintain the program's defensive identity and competitiveness in the Big 12.

The takeaway

The loss of defensive coordinators Green and Blount is a major setback for an Iowa State program that has built its recent success on a stifling, aggressive defense. Replacing their strategic leadership and player development skills will be a critical challenge as the Cyclones look to remain a contender in the Big 12.