Penn State Closes 2025 Strong, But 2026 Brings Big Questions-and Big Opportunities
Penn State fans got a little extra holiday cheer this year, thanks to a convincing 22-10 win over Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl. That victory capped off a four-game win streak and turned what was once a shaky 3-6 season into a respectable 7-6 finish. For a team that looked lost midway through the year, that’s a solid turnaround-and a sign that the Matt Campbell era may be picking up steam.
But as the calendar turns and the transfer portal reopens on January 2, attention quickly shifts from what just happened to what’s next. And for Penn State, “next” means a long list of roster questions, starting with some major holes to fill and a fanbase eager to see whether this team can climb back into Big Ten contention.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the early storylines heading into 2026.
Transfer Portal Will Be Key for Campbell’s First Full Cycle
Matt Campbell didn’t exactly walk into an ideal situation timing-wise. Hired late in the process, he’s been playing from behind when it comes to building the 2026 recruiting class.
At one point, the class was barely a blip on the national radar. But there’s been progress-and now, the transfer portal looms large.
If Penn State is serious about making a run at the Big Ten title in 2026, they’ll need to make some noise in the portal. Whether it’s plugging holes on the offensive line, finding a go-to receiver, or adding depth on defense, the Nittany Lions have to treat this offseason like a rapid rebuild. The pieces they bring in now will define Campbell’s first full season in charge.
Replacing a Record-Breaking Backfield
Kaytron Allen leaves Happy Valley with his name etched in the record books. After racking up 1,303 yards this season, he exits as Penn State’s all-time leading rusher with 4,180 career yards. That’s not just production-that’s legacy.
And he’s not alone. Fellow senior Nick Singleton is also moving on, leaving Penn State without the one-two punch that’s powered their offense in recent years.
So who’s next?
One name to watch is **Quinton Martin Jr. ** The freshman turned heads with a 101-yard performance on 20 carries against Clemson.
It was a breakout moment-and maybe a preview of what’s to come. But can he shoulder the full load in Campbell’s offense?
That’s the big question. Whether the answer is already on the roster or still out there in the portal, Penn State needs a new bell cow in the backfield.
Rebuilding the Trenches
Offensive line continuity has been a strength in recent years, but that’s about to be tested. The Lions are set to replace at least four starters up front-possibly five, depending on what Anthony Donkoh decides about his future.
There’s some optimism about the interior, where Cooper Cousins and TJ Shanahan Jr. offer a strong foundation. But tackle depth is less certain. And in the Big Ten, where physicality still rules the day, that’s a concern Penn State can’t afford to overlook.
On the defensive side, it’s a similar story. Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zane Durant are moving on, leaving a void in both pass rush and interior disruption. That’s a lot of production to replace, and the Lions will need some new faces to emerge as difference-makers in the trenches.
Wide Receiver Room Needs a Jolt
Let’s be honest-the wideout group didn’t exactly strike fear into opposing defenses this season. While Trebor Pena did torch Clemson for 100 receiving yards in the bowl game, he, Devonte Ross, and Kyron Hudson are all out of eligibility. And even with Pena’s late-season surge, his 552 receiving yards over 13 games led the team-a number that simply won’t cut it in 2026.
If Penn State wants to evolve into a more balanced, explosive offense, they need to find a true No. 1 receiver-someone who can stretch the field, win contested catches, and open things up for the rest of the offense. Whether that player is a breakout candidate already in the room or a transfer target, the need is clear: the passing game needs a serious upgrade.
The Road Ahead
Penn State closed 2025 with momentum, but the real work starts now. With roster turnover on both sides of the ball and a new coaching staff trying to establish its identity, this offseason is as important as any in recent memory.
Matt Campbell has a chance to reshape the program in his image. But to do that, he’ll need to hit on key decisions in the portal, develop young talent quickly, and plug some major holes-especially in the backfield, trenches, and receiver room.
The good news? The foundation is there.
The challenge? Turning that foundation into something that can compete in an increasingly deep and competitive Big Ten.
Let the 2026 rebuild begin.