Penn State’s offensive line is headed for a major reset in 2026, with four new starters expected to be in the mix. One name already drawing attention is second-year tackle Malachi Goodman, a prized 2025 signee who could be positioned to grab a first-string role.
The Lions chose to redshirt Goodman last season, even though the roster already featured three veteran tackles with starting experience. Now, with a fresh opportunity ahead, Goodman enters camp as one of the most intriguing players on the line.
Goodman’s high school résumé helps explain the buzz. He was a standout at Paramus Catholic High School and served as team captain in his senior year. Before signing with Penn State, he was a major recruiting target, with 247Sports listing interest from Georgia, Alabama, USC, Auburn and Florida.
At 6-6 and 330 pounds, Goodman brings the kind of size Penn State wants at tackle, and he has the flexibility to line up on either side. That versatility gives him a real path to the lineup, especially with the staff set to sort through multiple options in August.
Redshirt freshman Owen Aliciene and redshirt sophomore Garrett Sexton are also part of the competition. Redshirt junior Anthony Donkoh is another key piece in the picture; he is expected to be one of Penn State’s starting five linemen and has experience at both tackle and guard. Donkoh started 10 games at right tackle for the Lions in 2024.
Penn State’s own assessment of Goodman was clear last week in Chicago. “A big, athletic offensive tackle that will be competing for one of the starting spots on the offensive line.” -- Penn State’s Matt Campbell during his appearance at Big Ten Media Days in Chicago last week.
Goodman has the frame, the background and the chance. The rest will be decided in preseason camp.
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