Report: Missouri, defensive coordinator Corey Batoon agree to three-year contract extension

Missouri has agreed to a new three-year contract with defensive coordinator Corey Batoon, per ESPN’s Pete Thamel. On3’s Pete Nakos confirmed this report. Batoon is entering his second season as Missouri’s DC.

“We’re building something special at Mizzou, and I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of it,” Batoon said. “This program is full of talented student-athletes and coaches who take pride in doing things the right way. I’m thankful to Coach Drinkwitz and the administration for their trust, and I look forward to continuing to elevate our standard of excellence on the defensive side of the ball.”

Missouri’s defense only allowed 317.5 yards per game last season, ranking No. 17 in the country. Under Batoon’s supervision, the Tigers were excellent at getting off the field. Missouri held its opponents to a 30.2% third-down conversion percentage, the fifth lowest in the nation.

Missouri’s elite defense translated to the win column. The Tigers finished the year with a 10-3 overall record and a 5-3 mark in conference play. Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz is excited for the program’s future with Batoon by his side.

“Corey Batoon’s impact on our program and our ‘Death Row Defense’ in just one season has been tremendous,” Drinkwitz said. “He’s an incredible teacher and tactician and a relentless competitor.

“His leadership, preparation and ability to maximize our players’ potential helped us significantly on the defensive side in 2024. We’re proud to have him leading our defense as we continue to raise the bar and compete for championships at Mizzou.”

Missouri’s defense has an opportunity to be one of the best in college football this fall. The Tigers’ defense is returning eight starters from last season, including standout linebacker Triston Newson.

Moreover, Missouri added numerous quality pieces this offseason, reeling in the No. 7 class in On3’s 2025 Team Transfer Portal Rankings. Most notably, Missouri added former Georgia EDGE Damon Wilson and former West Virginia linebacker Josiah Trotter.

Eli Drinkwitz also received a contract extension this offseason. Earlier this month, Missouri extended the 42-year-old head coach through 2029.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the continued belief in our vision for Mizzou Football,” Drinkwitz said. “The Board of Curators, President Choi, Laird Veatch and our donors and fans have shown a deep commitment to building a championship-caliber program. That means investing in the people throughout our building who work tirelessly for our student-athletes. I’m proud of the staff we’ve assembled and excited to keep pushing forward together.”