Indiana University head football coach Curt Cignetti has made a significant move by reuniting with safety Louis Moore for the upcoming 2025-2026 season. Moore, who previously played for the Hoosiers in 2022 and 2023, returns to Bloomington after a season with the Ole Miss Rebels.
During his initial tenure at Indiana, Moore demonstrated his defensive prowess, amassing 92 tackles, one pass deflection, one sack, four forced fumbles, and three interceptions over two seasons. His performance caught the attention of Ole Miss, where he transferred for the 2024 season. With the Rebels, Moore continued to showcase his skills, recording 34 tackles, one pass deflection, and 0.5 sacks.
Moore’s decision to return to Indiana aligns with Cignetti’s strategic approach to revitalizing the Hoosiers’ roster through the transfer portal. Upon his appointment, Cignetti implemented an aggressive recruitment strategy, bringing in 31 transfers, including 13 players from his former team at James Madison University. This influx of talent contributed to Indiana’s remarkable turnaround, culminating in an 11-1 regular-season record and a berth in the College Football Playoff.
The Hoosiers’ success under Cignetti’s leadership has been widely recognized. He was honored with both the Hayes-Schembechler Award and the Dave McClain Coach of the Year Award, becoming the third Indiana coach to receive such accolades. Additionally, several players earned All-Big Ten honors, reflecting the team’s overall improvement and competitiveness.
Moore’s return is anticipated to bolster Indiana’s defensive lineup further. His familiarity with the program and proven track record make him a valuable asset as the Hoosiers aim to build upon their recent success. This move also underscores Cignetti’s commitment to leveraging experienced talent to enhance the team’s performance.
As the 2025-2026 season approaches, Indiana’s roster continues to evolve, reflecting a blend of returning players and new additions. The strategic use of the transfer portal, exemplified by Moore’s return, positions the Hoosiers to remain competitive in the challenging landscape of college football.
