2025 Coaching Staff

James Franklin led Penn State football for 12 seasons (2014-2025), compiling a 104-45 record and winning multiple Big Ten championships. He led the program to the College Football Playoff in 2024 but was fired on October 12, 2025, after a disappointing 3-3 start to the 2025 season that included losses to UCLA and Northwestern as a 24.5 and 21.5-point favorite respectively. His buyout of approximately $50 million is the second-largest in college football history. Franklin struggled against Top 10 opponents, going 4-21 against ranked teams during his tenure.

Terry Smith, a Penn State football alum (1987-1991) who ranked tied for 12th in career receiving touchdowns with 15, was promoted to interim head coach on October 12, 2025, following James Franklin's firing. Previously serving as associate head coach and cornerbacks coach, Smith took over a 3-3 team that had lost three straight Big Ten games. In his interim tenure, the Nittany Lions lost to Northwestern (22-21), Iowa (25-24), and Ohio State (38-14), falling to 0-4 in Big Ten play. Athletic director Patrick Kraft is conducting a national search for the permanent head coach, with Smith eligible to be considered for the position.

Andy Kotelnicki serves as offensive coordinator in his second season, continuing to develop one of the Big Ten's most dynamic offenses. His innovative schemes have been instrumental in the development of the Nittany Lions' offensive unit.

Jim Knowles leads the Penn State defense as coordinator, bringing extensive experience from previous coordinator positions at Ohio State and Oklahoma. His defensive schemes emphasize aggressive playmaking and turnover creation.

Ja'Juan Seider has been instrumental in developing Penn State's running back corps, helping players reach their full potential both on and off the field.

Marques Hagans brings extensive experience as both a player and coach, specializing in developing wide receivers and offensive strategies.

Danny Spencer oversees all special teams units, focusing on creating explosive plays and maintaining field position advantages.