Former NFL Coach Gains Traction for Penn State Position
As college football teams finalize their head-coaching searches, Penn State is actively seeking a candidate to replace James Franklin. The Nittany Lions’ situation is urgent, especially with recent losses in their 2026 recruiting class.
Coaching Search Intensifies at Penn State
Recently, Penn State lost several notable four-star recruits, including:
- Offensive tackle Marlen Bright
- Tight end Pierce Petersohn
- Running back Messiah Mickens
These players had previously committed under Franklin but chose to join Virginia Tech instead. Since Franklin’s departure, the team has seen a total of 19 commitments lost, amplifying the urgency to appoint a new head coach.
Potential Candidates for the Job
Bob Chesney, head coach at James Madison, is frequently mentioned as a strong contender for the position. His name has emerged as the favorite in various analyses and betting odds.
Another strong possibility is Brian Daboll, former head coach of the New York Giants. Nick Saban recently praised Daboll, calling him an “outstanding hire” for Penn State.
Support for Brian Daboll
Saban highlighted Daboll’s successful track record, emphasizing his experience in winning championships and his expertise as an offensive coordinator.
- Super Bowl experience with Bill Belichick
- Proven ability as a recruiter and teacher
- Strong relationships with players
Daboll’s odds of being hired by Penn State have recently increased to about 10%, indicating a growing interest from the program.
Other Frontrunners
If Penn State decides against hiring Daboll, two other candidates are also in consideration:
- Bob Chesney (James Madison head coach)
- Terry Smith (Interim head coach at Penn State)
The coaching search remains low-profile, but all eyes are on Penn State as the decision nears. Fans eagerly await a resolution that will impact the Nittany Lions’ future recruiting efforts and overall program direction.
