Even for a College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinalist like Penn State, the transfer portal remains an active landscape. While the Nittany Lions have enjoyed a successful season, their roster has seen some changes as players seek new opportunities. With only a handful of players entering and exiting the program, it’s essential to keep track of these movements, especially as they prepare for their semifinal clash against Notre Dame.
Penn State’s transfer portal landscape
The transfer portal has become a vital aspect of college football, allowing athletes to explore new opportunities and find the best fit for their skills and aspirations. For Penn State, the recent departures highlight the ongoing evolution of their roster. As they gear up for the semifinal game, let’s take a closer look at the four Nittany Lions who have already made the decision to enter the portal.
1. Beau Pribula, QB
Leading the list is Beau Pribula, a three-star quarterback from Pennsylvania. Over the past two seasons, Pribula has made a significant impact on the field, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. With 94 rushing attempts compared to just 56 passes, he has accumulated 571 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. In the air, he completed 37 of 56 passes for 424 yards, nine touchdowns, and only one interception.
Pribula has two seasons of eligibility remaining and has chosen to transfer to Missouri. With senior QB Brady Cook departing, Pribula is poised to step into a starting role, potentially following a similar path to former Nittany Lion Will Levis, who found success at Kentucky.
2. Jerry Cross, TE
Next up is Jerry Cross, a four-star tight end hailing from Wisconsin. Despite his promising recruitment, Cross saw limited action during his three seasons at Penn State, playing in only two games in 2024. He had already utilized a redshirt season, leaving him with two years of eligibility at his next destination. Cross has announced that he will be joining Memphis in 2025, where he is expected to receive more playing time and make a more substantial impact.
3. T.A. Cunningham, DL
Another player making waves in the transfer portal is T.A. Cunningham, a defensive lineman who had a unique recruitment journey. After gaining attention in Georgia, he bounced between multiple high schools before landing at Penn State. As a three-star recruit, Cunningham spent his freshman year with the Nittany Lions but did not see any game action, having redshirted. With four years of eligibility left, he has yet to announce his next move, but his potential remains high.
4. Feyisayo Oluleye, WR
Finally, we have Feyisayo Oluleye, a walk-on wide receiver who transferred to Penn State from Robert Morris. Unfortunately, Oluleye did not see any game action during his two seasons with the Nittany Lions. He made the decision to transfer earlier in the season and still has one year of college eligibility remaining. His next destination has yet to be revealed, but the opportunity to find a new home could lead to a fresh start.
The impact of the transfer portal on Penn State
As the Nittany Lions prepare for their critical semifinal matchup, the impact of these departures cannot be overlooked. The transfer portal has reshaped college football in recent years, allowing players to seek better opportunities and fit within programs that align with their goals. For Penn State, while these losses may seem significant, they also open doors for new talent to emerge and for current players to step up.
The Nittany Lions have built a strong foundation under head coach James Franklin, who has successfully guided the program to the CFP semifinals. However, as they navigate the challenges of roster changes, it’s crucial to focus on the players who remain committed to the program. The upcoming game against Notre Dame will be a testament to their resilience and ability to adapt.
Looking ahead
What does the future hold for Penn State as they move forward? The transfer portal will undoubtedly continue to play a role in shaping their roster. As they look to fill the gaps left by departing players, the coaching staff will need to evaluate potential recruits and consider how best to utilize the talent already on the team.
The excitement surrounding college football remains palpable, especially during this playoff season. Fans are eager to see how the Nittany Lions will perform against Notre Dame, and whether the players stepping into new roles can rise to the occasion.
What do you think about Penn State’s transfer portal defections? Share your thoughts in the comments below! The dynamics of college football are ever-changing, and as teams adapt, the stories of these young athletes continue to unfold.
