As Franklin said before hiring Allen last year, Penn State's defense is not in rebuild mode. The program is about winning now, which the returns of Drew Allar, Nicholas Singleton, Kaytron Allen and offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki have foreshadowed. Franklin is chasing hardware next season, and the defensive coordinator hire will reflect that.

Penn State defensive coordinator Tom Allen has agreed to take the same position at Clemson, the school announced on Tuesday. Allen, who just finished his first season as Penn State's defensive coordinator and linebackers coach,

The Penn State football roster that shined in the College Football Playoff semifinals and produced the most wins in school history will return a serious core of contributors. Foundationally, the Nittany Lions appear in about as good of shape as possible heading into preparations for a 2025 season with even greater expectations.

Penn State football's starting special teams unit are all making a return in 2025, special teams coordinator Justin Lustig announced on Wednesday morning. Placekicker Ryan Barker, punter Riley Thompson, kickoff specialist Gabe Nwosu and long snapper Tyler Duzansky are all expected back.

The Penn State Nittany Lions bring back four captains from their 2025 roster, including former walk-on Dom DeLuca.