A key lieutenant in Eliah Drinkwitz’ coaching staff has signed a contract extension to stay on the sidelines at the University of Missouri through 2027.

Drinkwitz announced Thursday that defensive coordinator Corey Batoon has agreed to the extension ahead of his second season at Mizzou. Batoon became the Tigers’ defensive coordinator in February 2024, following the departure of Blake Baker for LSU. In his first season at Mizzou, Batoon’s defense ranked fifth nationally in third down conversion, while ranking in the top 20 in total defense, passing yards allowed, and scoring defense. Mizzou recorded five or more tackles for loss in all but three games last season, and had four games with at least three sacks.

The announcement comes less than a week after the UM System Board of Curators approved an extension for Coach Drinkwitz until the 2029 season. Mizzou’s season begins Aug. 28 at Faurot Field against Central Arkansas.