Hoosiers Bolster Defense with Hjelle

Indiana Hoosiers are primed for another championship run after an undefeated season, with Coach Curt Cignetti and his staff laser-focused on building a dominant 2026-2027 team. The defensive line, led by position coach Pat Kuntz, has seen major upgrades, including the addition of transfer Joe Hjelle — a two-time junior college national champ and run-stopper with elite PFF grades. Hjelle joins a stacked interior line featuring returning stars Mario Landino and Tyrique Tucker, creating a fearsome front seven. On special teams, kicker Nico Radicic leads a deep roster, backed by capable options like Paddy McAteer and Quinn Warren, plus walk-on Josh Placzek — a Carmel standout who averaged over 57 yards on kickoffs last season. With the opener against North Texas looming, the Hoosiers are fine-tuning every facet to sustain their winning momentum. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/19bcf0d8c82e0a02