In a college football era where star players are lured by massive NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, Penn State’s biggest names are making headlines for a very different reason. Drew Allar, Nick Singleton, and Kaytron Allen have chosen loyalty over lucrative offers—let’s explore what drove these standout athletes to stay with the Nittany Lions.
Adam Breneman Spotlights How James Franklin’s Culture Is Winning Over Penn State’s Stars
Recently, analyst Adam Breneman took to Instagram to share a revealing excerpt from his interview with Penn State head coach James Franklin. The post quickly gained traction, sparking conversations across college football. Breneman highlighted how, despite the ever-growing influence of NIL money and the transfer portal, Penn State’s stars have chosen to stay in Happy Valley.
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The Instagram post, which drew from Breneman’s “Next Up” show and the must-watch YouTube interview “The James Franklin Interview Every Penn State Fan Needs to Hear”, underscored Franklin’s culture-first philosophy.
Rather than focusing on financial incentives, Franklin has built a program centered on genuine relationships, trust, and personal growth. This approach, Breneman notes, is what keeps top talents like Allar, Singleton, and Allen committed to the Nittany Lions.
Franklin’s message is clear: Penn State is about more than just football- it’s about transformation. “I care so much about the kids, and their journey, and their experience… I still want it to be as transformational as we possibly can be here at Penn State,” Franklin said. This commitment to his players’ holistic development is resonating, even as rival programs dangle bigger paychecks.
The Power of Relationships Over Riches
For Franklin and his staff, success isn’t measured by the size of NIL deals but by the strength of the Penn State community. Every player on the roster, according to Franklin, is likely walking away from some amount of money. Yet, they remain because they value the unique experience and camaraderie that Penn State offers.
This culture-driven approach is rare in today’s college football landscape. While other programs overhaul rosters with transfers and chase the next big NIL signing, Franklin’s selective strategy and focus on continuity have fostered loyalty. Players like Allar, Singleton, and Allen aren’t just staying for another season—they’re investing in their growth as athletes and people.
Players consistently describe Franklin’s personal investment in their lives. Linebacker Kaveion Keys shared, “He’s going to recruit you different. He’s going to send you posts, quotes every day. He’s not going to stop calling, texting you, just seeing how you’re doing and just checking in on you. And that’s all that matters.”
KEEP READING: ‘It Feels Wrong’—Why Insiders Are Suddenly Putting James Franklin’s Penn State at No. 1, and Not Ohio State
Penn State’s ability to retain its brightest stars in the face of big-money offers is a testament to James Franklin’s culture-first vision. In an age where college athletes are often treated like commodities, Franklin’s commitment to relationships and transformation is proving to be Penn State’s greatest asset.
