Curt Cignetti, the head coach of the Indiana Hoosiers, is openly addressing his past challenges as he outlines his vision for the team's future in the 2025 season. In a candid admission, Cignetti is taking ownership of previous setbacks, setting the stage for a renewed focus and determination to elevate the Hoosiers' football program.
Cignetti's journey to becoming a head coach at a major program wasn't without its hurdles. He mentioned that as he approached his 50th birthday while on Nick Saban's staff at Alabama, he didn't want to be a career-long assistant coach after being passed over a few times for coordinator positions. To achieve his head coaching aspirations, he made a significant decision to step down to the Division II level at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. "I took a big pay cut, I had two girls in high school who wanted to be doctors. I mean, I bet on myself," Cignetti said.
Now at Indiana, Cignetti is determined to build a successful program. Speaking on National Signing Day, Cignetti highlighted the team's 2025 recruiting class, which includes 19 transfer portal additions and 23 high school recruits. He expressed confidence that these new additions would address key needs for the upcoming season. "We feel like we've filled immediate needs through the portal," Cignetti said. "With 19 portal guys—almost 20 if you count E.J. Williams Jr., who returned after entering the portal—and 23 high school players, we're in a good position heading into 2025". Fourteen of the high school recruits are already enrolled.
Cignetti also emphasized the importance of a strong coaching staff, introducing Chandler Whitmer as the team's new quarterbacks coach. "Chandler came highly recommended," Cignetti said. "He's been around great people and brings a lot of expertise. His main job will be to develop our quarterbacks".
Cignetti's commitment to Indiana is evident in his new eight-year contract, which includes an average annual compensation of $8 million, plus an annual $1 million retention bonus, through the 2032 season. He affirmed his desire to remain in Bloomington, stating, "This is where I wanted to be". "I played the what-if game with my wife and my agent three weeks ago, four weeks ago, and it all pointed to where I'm at right now".
Looking ahead, Cignetti is focused on instilling a culture of hard work and a hunger for success within the team. "This team is hungry and humble," he said. "We're working hard in the offseason, and we're excited for what's ahead".
