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James Franklin Mentioned For 2 Coaching Jobs After Penn State Firing

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Oct 17, 2025 11:12 PM ET

James Franklin isn't even a week removed from being fired by Penn State, and yet, he's already being linked to two job openings.

Penn State made the tough decision to move on from Franklin following a 22-21 loss to Northwestern. It couldn't have been easy for the athletic department considering the veteran coach had a buyout worth more than $49 million. At the end of the day, the program felt it was necessary given how poorly things have played out this season.

Franklin's future has been a hot topic in the college football world. In fact, he was brought up during Thursday night's game between Tulsa and ECU. ESPN commentator Matt Barrie mentioned Virginia Tech as a possible suitor for the ex-Penn State coach.

“I would imagine, unless he doesn’t want to be because he’s getting paid good money not to coach,” Barrie said, via On3. “But I’d be interested to see what his next move is because certainly, there are going to be some jobs opening that would want James Franklin as their head coach. … You look at a job like Virginia Tech. The energy that James Franklin would bring to a Virginia Tech.”

A few moments later, Barrie mentioned UCLA as a potential landing spot for Franklin. The Bruins fired DeShaun Foster after an 0-3 start to the season. UCLA has rebounded nicely under interim coach Tim Skipper, winning two out of its past three games, which includes an upset over Penn State.

“I could see him going out west, maybe for a fresh start,” Barrie continued. “UCLA would love to have a guy like James Franklin.”

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 31: Head coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions looks on prior to the 2024 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl against the Boise State Broncos at State Farm Stadium on December 31, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)Norm Hall/Getty Images

Franklin's buyout features an interesting clause.

According to Front Office Sports, Franklin’s contract with Penn State requires him to look for another job in either coaching or broadcasting.

"James Franklin is required to look for another job in coaching or broadcasting, according to a copy of his Penn State contract obtained by FOS," the report stated. "If Franklin's new job pays him less than the $8M he's owed annually through 2031, Penn State only owes him the difference."

Suffice to say, Franklin won't have the luxury of just sitting back and collecting checks. He'll need to scan the job market.

If Virginia Tech and UCLA are serious about landing a proven winner, they'll give Franklin a call this offseason.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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