The Penn State Nittany Lions are gearing up for an exciting season with a fresh roster, thanks to a coaching shake-up that brought in a slew of new talent. Among the standout additions is senior tight end Benjamin Brahmer, a key figure from Iowa State's offense, now reunited with head coach Matt Campbell and offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser at Penn State.
Brahmer, who earned All-Big 12 honors last season, is known for his versatility on the field. Mouser praised Brahmer's ability to challenge defenses, highlighting his dual-threat capability as both a wide receiver and a tight end. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 255 pounds, Brahmer was a semifinalist for the Mackey Award last year, showcasing his prowess with 37 receptions, 446 yards, and six touchdowns.
Reflecting on Brahmer's journey, he was a three-star recruit from Pierce, Nebraska, initially committing to Nebraska before switching to Iowa State. His freshman year saw him actively involved with 28 receptions, but injuries hampered his sophomore season. However, Brahmer bounced back with a stellar junior year, leading the Cyclones in catches and touchdowns.
Mouser emphasized Brahmer’s growth, not just as a receiver but also as a blocker, which adds a crucial dimension to his game. With 75 catches and 977 yards under his belt at Iowa State, Brahmer was rated as a four-star transfer talent and quickly found his way to Penn State.
Joining Brahmer are fellow Iowa State transfers Gabe Burkle and Cooper Alexander, adding depth to Penn State's tight end lineup. With Khalil Dinkins moving towards the NFL and Luke Reynolds transferring, Brahmer, Burkle, and Rappleyea are expected to be pivotal in the Nittany Lions' offensive schemes.
The familiarity extends beyond the tight end room, as former Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht is set to lead Penn State’s offense. Becht and Brahmer share a strong on-field connection, having built trust during their time at Iowa State.
As Brahmer prepares for his debut in a Penn State uniform, fans can look forward to seeing him in action during the Blue-White spring game on April 25. With his unique skill set and established rapport with key teammates, Brahmer is poised to make a significant impact on the Nittany Lions' upcoming season.