Five Penn State football newcomers ready to make their mark this spring

The expectations for Penn State heading into 2025 are sky-high. After a College Football Playoff semifinal run, the Nittany Lions are a popular pick to take that next step and be squarely in the national title conversation. The hype is real, but at the beginning of March, there are more pertinent questions to be answered, like which new faces Penn State fans should be looking for once spring practices get underway.

As it has been for the past few off-seasons, the most pressing storyline is still who will catch passes from Drew Allar. Tyler Warren is likely a top-10 pick, and several wide receivers went elsewhere in the transfer portal. Julian Fleming did not solve anything last season, and he is also gone, so offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki will again be looking for someone new to step up.

Defensively, several key starters, including star pass rusher Abdul Carter, are moving on to the next level. Starting middle linebacker, Kobe King, and defensive backs Kevin Winston Jr., Jaylen Reed, and Jalen Kimber are also off to the NFL.

Penn State brings in 27 freshmen this year, plus a six-man transfer class. With James Franklin’s development philosophy, it is unlikely that many freshmen will see much impact playing time in 2025. There will, however, be some position battles this spring, with a few new faces seemingly in a great spot to earn a starting role.

With several starters transferring or entering the NFL, here are five newcomers every Penn State fan should know ahead of spring practices.

WR Kyron Hudson

Nov 30, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Kyron Hudson (10) reacts after catching a pass for first down during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Hudson was a hot commodity in the transfer portal. Reports said he…


Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/article/five-penn-state-football-newcomers-110649922.html

Author : Nittany Lions Wire

Publish date : 2025-03-04 11:06:00

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