On Feb. 26, 2025, Penn State announced the hiring of former Nittany Lions quarterback Trace McSorley as an assistant quarterbacks coach. McSorley is one of the most beloved players in the school’s history, which is why the excitement for this hire was quite justified. Fans quickly jumped to replies to express their reactions, cementing this move to be a major one for the team.
Fans React to Trace McSorley’s Return to Penn State as a Coach
After rounds of speculations, Penn State finally made an official announcement about McSorley’s addition to the coaching staff on Tuesday evening. The team shared the news with a post on X, featuring a photo of McSorley and the caption: “Home run hire! Welcome home.”
Home run hire! Welcome home, 9⃣.#WeAre x @McSorley_IX pic.twitter.com/3Q1TKkmrvF
— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) February 25, 2025
The reaction was instant, with fans celebrating his return. Comments ranged from excitement about his impact on the offense to nostalgia over his legendary college career. One fan exclaimed, “The GOAT is back where he belongs. Let’s get this offense rolling!”
Another wrote, “He would have made so much from NIL smh,”
Meanwhile, another fan added, “Nooo he was so good in the NFL, how can he pass up that career?”
A simple but heartfelt comment read, “Congrats Coach!“
McSorley will serve as an assistant quarterbacks coach, working alongside head coach James Franklin and quarterbacks coach Danny O’Brien.
His hiring was first hinted at by Penn State athletic director Pat Kraft during a THON appearance over the weekend.
McSorley is one of the most successful quarterbacks in Penn State history. As a three-year starter, he played a key role in the program’s success, helping lead the Nittany Lions to a Big Ten Championship in 2016 and a Fiesta Bowl victory in 2017.
He finished his college career as Penn State’s all-time leader in passing yards (9,899) and second in passing touchdowns (77). While his records have since been surpassed by Sean Clifford, McSorley remains a fan favorite and a key figure in Penn State’s modern football history.
McSorley shares a strong bond with Franklin. Originally committed to Vanderbilt, McSorley flipped to Penn State when Franklin took over the program. Now, their football paths align once again, this time on the coaching side of the game.
McSorley’s coaching career comes after a six-year stint in the NFL. He spent most of his time as a backup with the Baltimore Ravens and Arizona Cardinals before brief stops with the New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Washington Commanders. He appeared in nine NFL games, throwing for 502 yards and one touchdown.
His involvement with Penn State football has been ongoing. McSorley was spotted at practices last season, often working alongside Danny O’Brien and the team’s quarterbacks. Now, as an official member of the staff, he will help mentor Drew Allar in his final year of college eligibility.
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Fans are eager to see what impact McSorley can have in his new role. His deep understanding of the program, combined with his experience as both a player and mentor, makes him a valuable addition. For now, one thing is clear — Penn State has hit a home run with this hire.
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