As Penn State gears up for its Dec. 27 Pinstripe Bowl clash with Clemson, the program is in the midst of a major transition - and it’s not just about the players opting out. Behind the scenes, the Nittany Lions are undergoing a significant reshaping of their coaching staff, with new head coach Matt Campbell wasting no time in bringing his people aboard.
Campbell, who made the jump from Iowa State to take over the reins in Happy Valley, has been steadily building his staff, and the names coming in are familiar to anyone who followed his tenure in Ames. The emphasis here is clear: continuity, trust, and a shared vision. Campbell is surrounding himself with coaches and personnel he’s worked with closely - and successfully - in the past.
For now, though, it’s Terry Smith who will lead Penn State into the bowl game against Dabo Swinney’s Clemson squad. Smith, a long-tenured member of the Nittany Lions’ staff since 2014 and previously the team’s cornerbacks coach, was named interim head coach following the coaching change. He’s a respected figure in the locker room and will remain on staff under Campbell moving forward, though his exact role hasn’t been detailed yet.
Here’s a breakdown of the key additions to Penn State’s new-look football staff:
Taylor Mouser - Offensive Coordinator/Tight Ends
Mouser served as Campbell’s offensive coordinator at Iowa State and will now take the reins of Penn State’s offense. His familiarity with Campbell’s system should help ease the transition and bring a cohesive offensive identity to the Nittany Lions.
Ryan Clanton - Offensive Line Coach
Clanton also comes over from Iowa State, where he worked with the offensive line. His unit was known for its physicality and discipline - traits Penn State will be looking to replicate in the trenches.
Deon Broomfield - Secondary Coach
Broomfield handled the safeties at Iowa State last season and now steps into a broader role with Penn State’s secondary. With multiple opt-outs expected in the defensive backfield, his ability to develop young talent will be crucial.
Skip Brabenec - Chief of Staff
Brabenec previously held a similar title at Iowa State, functioning as assistant athletic director for football and chief of staff. He’ll play a key role in managing the day-to-day operations and keeping the program running smoothly behind the scenes.
Derek Hoodjer - General Manager
As Campbell’s former associate athletic director for personnel, Hoodjer brings experience in roster management and recruiting logistics - a vital piece of modern college football’s puzzle.
Aaron Hillman - Director of Sports Performance
Hillman oversaw football operations at Iowa State and now shifts into a performance-focused role, where he’ll help guide player development and conditioning.
Reid Kagy - Head Strength and Conditioning Coach
Kagy held the same position under Campbell at Iowa State and will now lead Penn State’s strength program. His approach will be key in building the physical foundation Campbell wants to establish.
Trent Slattenow - Director of Player Personnel
Slattenow also follows Campbell from Iowa State, maintaining the same title. He’ll be tasked with managing recruiting boards, scouting, and helping to shape the roster in the long term.
This kind of wholesale staff transition is no small thing - it signals a clear direction and philosophy from Campbell, who’s bringing in trusted voices to help implement his culture from Day 1. With the Pinstripe Bowl on the horizon, the immediate focus is on finishing the season strong. But make no mistake: the foundation for the next era of Penn State football is already being laid.