In 2026, Penn State is set to introduce a fresh face in their special teams unit, as redshirt senior Blaise Sokach-Minnick steps up to take over the long snapping duties. Following in the footsteps of Tyler Duzansky and current Seattle Seahawk Chris Stoll, Sokach-Minnick is ready to make his mark.
Reflecting on his journey, Sokach-Minnick shared, “It’s kind of like passing the torch almost. I learned some things from Stoll coming in.
And Tyler, I learned a lot from him.” This transition is more than just a change in personnel; it’s a continuation of a legacy shaped by two of the most accomplished long snappers in Penn State history.
Duzansky, a Patrick Mannelly Award finalist in 2025 and ranked as the No. 2 long snapper for the 2026 NFL Draft by Mel Kiper Jr., set a high bar. Stoll, who won the Mannelly Award in 2022, has already proven his mettle with the Seahawks, contributing to their recent Super Bowl victory over the Patriots.
Sokach-Minnick’s path wasn’t without its challenges. Unlike Duzansky, who quickly ascended to the starting role, Sokach-Minnick spent four years honing his skills behind the scenes. Coming in as a highly-touted five-star recruit from Wyoming Area High School, he brought versatility with experience at quarterback and defensive end, yet only saw action in six games.
The journey of a long snapper is often underappreciated, with limited opportunities to showcase skills. Sokach-Minnick acknowledged the hurdles, saying, “There’s some setbacks that you have to go through, but at the end of the day, you have to go back to your roots and your values.”
His decision to return for the 2026 season under new head coach Matt Campbell was influenced by the retention of special teams coach Justin Lustig. “He’s one of the greatest coaches I’ve ever had,” Sokach-Minnick noted, emphasizing the importance of consistency in his development.
With just one year to make an impact, Sokach-Minnick is embracing his role as a leader. “It’s a special opportunity, being an older guy in the program,” he said. His focus is on elevating his teammates, understanding that their success is intertwined with his own.
As Sokach-Minnick steps into this pivotal role, he carries the weight of tradition and the promise of potential, ready to contribute to a special teams unit that thrived last season. His journey is a testament to patience, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.