UPDATE: Penn State University’s coaching search has sent shockwaves through college football, costing the industry an astonishing $370.8 million as coaches secure lucrative contract extensions in the wake of head coach James Franklin’s firing on October 12, 2023.
In a rapidly evolving situation, Penn State’s search for a new head coach is falling short, prompting a cascade of contract renewals among high-profile coaches. Just days ago, the Nittany Lions were reportedly close to acquiring Kalani Sitake, the head coach of BYU, but the Cougars stepped in with a financial boost to retain their leader ahead of a potential College Football Playoff appearance.
This is not an isolated incident. The Nittany Lions have been linked to several top-tier coaches since Franklin’s dismissal, yet each pursuit has resulted in missed opportunities. Coaches like Curt Cignetti of Indiana and Matt Rhule of Nebraska secured contract extensions shortly after rumors of their candidacy emerged, further complicating Penn State’s search.
As reported by Thomas Frank Carr of On3, it’s estimated that the coaching search has led to a whopping $370.8 million in extensions for seven other college football coaches. These recent developments underscore the urgency for Penn State to make a decisive move before the recruiting landscape shifts further.
In addition to BYU’s Sitake, coaching extensions have been granted to Mike Elko at Texas A&M, Eli Drinkwitz at Missouri, Clark Lea at Vanderbilt, and Brent Key at Georgia Tech. These strategic moves by rival programs are putting Penn State at a disadvantage, leaving them in a precarious position.
As a result, Penn State’s recruiting efforts are suffering significantly. Currently, the program ranks a dismal 150th for the class of 2026, while nearby schools like Virginia Tech, under the leadership of Franklin, are thriving with a current ranking of No. 22 after the early signing period.
The financial implications of this coaching search are profound, signaling a shift in the college football landscape. With each extension, the pressure mounts on Penn State athletic director Patrick Kraft to secure a head coach who can rally the program and restore its competitive edge.
Looking ahead, the Nittany Lions face a critical juncture. They must act swiftly to attract a compelling candidate and salvage their recruiting class before more talent slips away. As the college football world watches closely, Penn State’s next moves will be crucial in determining the future of their program.
For ongoing updates on this developing story and more on college football, stay tuned to Newsweek Sports.
