Examining Penn State Nittany Lions' Massive 2026 Transfer Portal Haul

After the Penn State Nittany Lions hired head coach Matt Campbell, one of the main issues that needed to be addressed this offseason was the transfer portal.

With a total of 47 players entering the transfer portal this cycle, it was clear that Campbell would need to regain some key playmakers for the 2026 season. Some of the high-profile names that departed from the program this offseason include star EDGE rusher Chaz Coleman, tight end Luke Renoylds, and quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer.

However, the new regime in State College managed to do a terrific job of acquiring key playmakers for the upcoming season, finishing the portal haul with a total of 36 incoming transfers. Out of the 36 transfers, 23 of the players come from Iowa State, giving Campbell some familiarity in his first season with the program.

The biggest player to sign with the Nittany Lions this offseason was by far quarterback Rocco Becht. While under the likes of Campbell at Iowa State, the veteran playmaker threw for 9,274 yards and 64 touchdowns in four seasons. Becht also proved to be a true dual-threat at the helm, rushing for 499 yards and 19 touchdowns.

To aid Becht in the passing game, Campbell pulled multiple pass catchers he coached at Iowa State, including wide receivers Chase Sowell, Zay Robinson, and tight end Benjamin Brahmer. The three former Cyclones played a key role on offense in 2025 and will likely be foundational pieces in 2026.

Despite the program losing the outstanding running back duo of Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton to the NFL Draft, Campbell was able to add a running back alongside Quinton Martin Jr. in the form of former Ohio State standout James Peoples and Iowa State’s Carson Hansen.

Luckily for the coaching staff, the success on offense was copied on the defensive side of the ball.

The secondary unit was one of the first position groups that was addressed, as Campbell pulled his stout safety duo of Marcus Neal Jr. and Jeremiah Cooper. Neal finished his 2025 season with 77 tackles, three pass deflections, and two interceptions, while Cooper recorded six tackles in three games.

Another name to look out for on the defense next season will be linebacker Caleb Bacon, who led the team in sacks (3) while also tallying 68 tackles. His strong showing during the 2025 season should pave the way for a big year in 2026.