Penn State HC James Franklin changes agents amid rumors of potential departure

James Franklin is in his eighth season as head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, but a midseason switch of agents is fueling rumors that he may not stick around for an ninth.

Football Scoop reported Monday night that Franklin has hired Jimmy Sexton of CAA to take over as new agent. He was previously represented by Trace Armstrong of Athletes First.

The news comes as Franklin has been talked about as a potential candidate to take over as head coach of the USC Trojans. In an interview with former USC quarterback Carson Palmer, radio host Dan Patrick suggested Franklin may be a frontrunner for the Trojans' vacancy and Palmer seemingly confirmed he's on the school's wish list. Other names on the list, according to Palmer, include Iowa State's Matt Campbell, Cincinnati's Luke Fickell, and the Pittsburgh Steelers' Mike Tomlin.

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Franklin, 49, signed a six-year contract extension with Penn State in February 2020 that guaranteed him at least $38.2 million through the 2025 season. 

In eight seasons, Franklin has led Penn State to a 65-30 record with trips to the Rose Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and Cotton Bowl. He previously coached the Vanderbilt Commodores for three seasons, leading the school to a 24-15 record with three bowl game appearances.

USC fired coach Clay Helton earlier in 2021 after a 1-1 start to the season. He coached the team to a 46-24 record over his tenure.