New Coach Matt Campbell Revamps Penn State Football Roster

The landscape of NCAA Division I football is shifting dramatically as over 4,000 players have entered the transfer portal since January 2, 2024. In response, Penn State is actively reshaping its roster under new head coach Matt Campbell. With 70 roster spots available due to player departures, including commitments to the NFL and transfers, Campbell is focusing on securing talent from his previous program, Iowa State.

As of now, Campbell’s staff has successfully recruited 21 former Cyclones just days before the transfer portal deadline on January 16. This strategy has drawn mixed reactions from fans, particularly given Iowa State’s 8-4 record this season. Many supporters question how these players will adapt in the more competitive Big Ten conference, which is known for its robust athleticism compared to the Big 12.

Campbell’s approach mirrors that of Curt Cignetti, who revitalized Indiana by bringing in numerous players from his previous stint at James Madison. Cignetti’s strategy has proven successful, as Indiana is now set to compete against Miami (Fla.) for the national championship. This model appears to resonate with Campbell, who seems more focused on team cohesion than simply chasing high-profile recruits for ranking purposes.

In terms of player acquisitions, Campbell has not emphasized landing numerous four- or five-star recruits. Instead, he has targeted a diverse group of both seasoned and younger athletes. This includes bolstering Penn State’s defensive line with larger tackles such as Keanu Williams (6’5″, 320 lbs) and Siale Taupaki (6’4″, 335 lbs) from UCLA, aiming to address a defensive weakness that allowed an average of 142.5 rushing yards per game last season, ranking 10th in the Big Ten and 56th nationally.

On the defensive side, Penn State has recruited three linebackers from Iowa State to fill the void left by six departures, including leading tackler Amare Campbell, who has committed to Tennessee. Offensively, the Nittany Lions welcomed quarterback Rocco Becht and Alex Manske to replace Drew Allar, who has opted for the NFL. The addition of tight ends Benjamin Brahmer, Gabe Burkle, and Cooper Alexander further strengthens the team’s offensive line-up, particularly after multiple departures in that position.

With the departure of all-time leading rusher Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton to the NFL, Campbell has also brought in running backs Carson Hansen from Iowa State and James Peoples from Ohio State to enhance the backfield. They will join Quinton Martin Jr., who stood out in the Pinstripe Bowl, and returning players like Tikey Hayes and Cam Wallace, who recently announced he will remain with the Lions after entering the portal.

As the transfer portal remains open, Campbell continues to work diligently to refine the roster, particularly at the wide receiver position. So far, Penn State has secured commitments from only two high school seniors, Jackson Ford and Peyton Falzone, during the early signing period last month. The Nittany Lions have a total of 13 commitments in the 2026 recruiting class, many of whom have flipped from Iowa State, reflecting Campbell’s focus on integrating players familiar with his system.

The upcoming season remains uncertain, especially with ongoing roster changes nationwide. Nonetheless, Campbell’s proactive recruitment strategy has already made a significant impact, demonstrating his commitment to building a competitive team that can thrive in the Big Ten.