Penn State Freshmen to Watch: 6 Nittany Lions Who Could Contribute in 2025

Franklin isn't shy about buzzing freshmen when they have earned it. This year, the buzzworthy freshman is Coleman. Franklin raved about the 6-4 defensive end who is nearly 250 pounds and "still skinny."

"We're all surprised," Franklin said of Coleman before explaining why the Ohio native has been such a revelation. It's primarily that Coleman played just one season at defensive end in high school, where he also played quarterback. Coleman has a chance to break through early at a position that needs to give Dani Dennis-Sutton an occasional break.

Defensive end Yvan Kemajou

Kemajou was a top-20 prospect at his position nationally at Maryland's Paint Branch High, where he made 12.5 sacks over the past two seasons. Because of spring roster limitations, Kemajou earned an upgraded role in the Blue-White Game and joins Coleman as potential contributor up front this season.

Receiver Koby Howard

Penn State's trio of transfer receivers have turned around the room, with fifth-year senior Liam Clifford being an underrated member of the group. But Franklin continues searching for receivers who can be consistent threats.

There's room for a freshman here, and Penn State has three of them in the recruiting class. Howard currently leads a group that includes Matt Outten and Jeff Exinor Jr. Howard, a 3-star prospect from Florida, looked sharp in the Blue-White Game and is having a solid camp.

Running back Tikey Hayes

Franklin didn't sound terribly thrilled this week with what's happening at running back behind Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. He wants a third back to serve as a pressure valve for the top two, but no one has seized the role yet.

So why not Hayes? The 5-11, 205-pound Pennsylvania back rushed for 2,239 yards as a junior in 2023, leading Aliquippa to a state title. Though he had some injuries last season, Hayes has grown his presence. He's not likely to win a top-four role but could make a run at playing time.

Linebacker LaVar Arrington II

This simply isn't name recognition or a legacy choice. Arrington has been a player in camp and possesses the kind of athleticism that might benefit Penn State on special teams. He's 6-3, 219 pounds and not quite ready to play linebacker. But Arrington is a candidate for coverage teams.

Penn State opens the season Aug. 30 against Nevada at Beaver Stadium.