Penn State football is bringing back one of its most celebrated players of all time, Trace McSorley. The former Nittany Lions quarterback led the team to a Big Ten Championship in 2016. According to the report, McSorley is all set to join James Franklin’s coaching staff as an analyst in the quarterback room.
James Franklin and Trace McSorley Reunited Once Again
Penn State athletic director Pat Kraft hinted at McSorley’s return during the university’s annual THON event. While addressing fans at the Bryce Jordan Center, Kraft made a cryptic remark about McSorley joining the athletic staff. Soon after, reports confirmed that the former quarterback would officially be part of Franklin’s coaching team.
As an analyst, he will work closely with the quarterback unit. He finished his time at Penn State with 9,899 passing yards, 77 touchdowns, and a 144.5 passer rating. His leadership and experience will now be an asset to the current roster, particularly to starting quarterback Drew Allar.
Nittany Sports Now can confirm what Penn State AD Pat Kraft hinted at tonight during THON: Trace McSorley is set to join James Franklin’s staff.
Story: https://t.co/XED91LXniE
— Joe Smeltzer (@joesmeltzer775) February 23, 2025
Following his standout college career, McSorley was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He spent three seasons with the Ravens before moving on to the Arizona Cardinals, where he saw his most significant playing time.
In 2022, he appeared in six games for Arizona, completing 45 of 83 passes for 412 yards. However, his time in the NFL was marked by frequent moves. Over the past two seasons, he had brief stints with the Patriots, Bears, Steelers, and Commanders.
While McSorley has not officially retired from playing, his new role at Penn State suggests a transition into a new role. At just 29 years old, he brings a fresh perspective to the staff and firsthand experience of the challenges young quarterbacks face. His presence in the quarterback room could be significant for shaping the future of Penn State’s offense.
Franklin’s decision to bring McSorley back to Happy Valley shows the program’s commitment to strengthening its coaching staff with individuals who know what needs to be done to make the team great.
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McSorley was recruited by Franklin out of high school and was a key player in some of the program’s most successful seasons. Now, he has made the full circle by joining Franklin’s staff and has the opportunity to help develop the next generation of Nittany Lion quarterbacks.
Penn State kicks off its 2025 season against Nevada on August 30, and all eyes will be on how McSorley and Frankiln’s influence impacts the team. As college football continues to evolve with new roster management challenges and financial considerations, Penn State is reinforcing its staff with trusted names.
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