Matt Campbell could zero in on John Heacock as Penn State's next defensive coordinator. Iowa State defensive coordinator John Heacock could be a top candidate to follow Penn State head coach Matt Campbell to Happy Valley as the Nittany Lions’ next defensive coordinator. (Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images)

Source: Penn State Set to Retain Key Staff Member

Originally posted on Nittany Central | By Ian Purdy | Last updated Dec 16, 2025 5:37 PM ET

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Even though Matt Campbell has been the Head Coach of Penn State Football for nearly two weeks, staff decisions are still being sorted out.

Today, sources confirmed to NittanyCentral that Alan Zemaitis will remain on staff under Campbell.

Zemaitis is a Penn State letterman and currently holds the title of “Recruiting Coordinator for Personnel”.

Continuity Secured: Campbell Retains Penn State Legend Alan Zemaitis

This news comes after it was reported that Matt Campbell would bring over former Iowa State Wide Receiver Coach, Noah Pauley earlier today.

Pauley reunites with several Iowa State coaches who followed Campbell to Happy Valley. The defensive coordinator is the biggest vacancy facing the Nittany Lions right now.

That search could take a while. But, the more in depth staff members like Zemaitis are being sorted out relatively soon.

The Zemaitis File: All-American Resume and Recruiting Footprint

For Matt Campbell and Penn State’s recruiting efforts, keeping Zemaitis on staff is a big deal.

Zemaitis wore the Blue and White and has a very good reputation on the recruiting trail.

During his career at Penn State, Zemaitis played in 35 games from 2003-2005. During that time, the cornerback picked off 12 passes and forced two fumbles. After the 2005 season in which Zemaitis logged 37 tackles and 6 interceptions, he was selected in the 4th round of the draft by the Buccaneers.

On the recruiting trail, Zemaitis is regarded as one of the better recruiters of the footprint. He joined the Penn State staff back in 2021. Prior to that he served as the Susquehanna University Defensive Backs Coach.

Getting the Penn State letterman to stay on staff is a huge win for Matt Campbell. Keeping Zemaitis will pay off for years down the road.