Penn State hopes to add to program's elite lineage of linebackers by poaching Bill Belichick's biggest star
The Penn State Nittany Lions have done their best to replicate Ohio State's all-in approach from 2024. Bringing almost all of their best stars back from last season gave James Franklin an unusual amount of veteran talent to build around. Now, he's trying to fill any remaining holes with stars who can help alleviate the […]
The Penn State Nittany Lions have done their best to replicate Ohio State's all-in approach from 2024. Bringing almost all of their best stars back from last season gave James Franklin an unusual amount of veteran talent to build around.
Now, he's trying to fill any remaining holes with stars who can help alleviate the loss of Abdul Carter.
On3 is reporting that Penn State could seal the deal with their next elite off-ball linebacker this weekend.
"As of Thursday morning, the expectation remains that Amare Campbell will visit State College this weekend. Linebacker remains the top portal need for James Franklin as the spring window winds down."
Franklin has been clear that he wants solutions for his roster as the Nittany Lions gear up for a National Championship run.
“I think we got enough in the room, but to get through an entire season, if we get some injuries, it could get challenging," Franklin said. "So we're going to look at the portal, see if we can find a solution.”
Campbell could be an ideal solution, following a remarkable sophomore season at Chapel Hill. Originally a 3-star recruit from Virginia, he exceeded expectations over the past two years. Last year, Campbell tallied 76 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and a forced fumble, demonstrating his effectiveness as a starter in a power conference.
The Nittany Lions have faced setbacks with the departure of linebackers Ta'Mere Robinson and Beckham Dee to the spring transfer portal, leaving them with even less depth at a position already in question.
If Franklin and his staff manage to bring Campbell on board, he is likely to secure a starting position alongside Tony Rojas in defensive coordinator Jim Knowles' 4-2-5 defensive scheme. Rojas has actively encouraged Campbell on X to commit to Penn State.
Penn State is an interesting option for the rising junior who stands 6 feet tall and weighs 230 pounds. In the inaugural expanded 12-team College Football Playoff for the 2024-2025 season, Penn State secured the No. 6 seed, triumphing in two games before falling in the semifinals to Notre Dame, the eventual runner-up.
The Nittany Lions seem poised to be a dominant force in college football as they head into the upcoming season.
