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James Franklin Reportedly 'Pursued' For SEC Head Coach Vacancy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Nov 13, 2025 1:18 PM ET

James Franklin's tenure with the Penn State Nittany Lions ended on Oct. 12 after starting the season just 3-3. It's a big change considering he'd been at the helm of the Nittany Lions since 2014 and was in his 12th season.

In that time, he compiled a 104-45 overall record and went 6-6 in bowl games. However, just because he's done with Penn State doesn't mean Franklin is walking away from coaching.

He's viewed as a top available candidate, with teams such as the LSU Tigers, Florida Gators, Auburn Tigers, Arkansas Razorbacks, Virginia Tech Hokies and Oklahoma State Cowboys all having vacancies.

Former Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin.Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

He could very soon be coaching in the SEC, with On3's Pete Nakos reporting that "Arkansas has also pursued former Penn State coach James Franklin, who is a top name in the Virginia Tech search."

The Razorbacks parted ways with Sam Pittman on Sept. 28 after a 2-3 start. After taking over as head coach in 2020, he went 32-34 and 3-0 in bowl games.

Arkansas' resources make it an intriguing option. According to 247Sports, the Razorbacks' 2025 NIL collective of $11.5 million is the 17th highest in college football.

Franklin has already had success in the SEC during his time with the Vanderbilt Commodores (2011 to 2013). In three years, he had two winning seasons and went 2-1 in bowl games.

However, the Razorbacks aren't even close to making a decision, with Nakos also writing, 'Sources have stressed to On3 that Arkansas does not have a top three or a top target at this point

If Franklin doesn't end up with Arkansas, though, turning the team around isn't a small task. The program hasn't had a double-digit win season since 2011 or brought home an SEC title despite joining the conference in 1992.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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