COACHING STAFF
The leaders guiding the Nittany Lions through the 2025 campaign.
Interim Head Coach
Matt Campbell
Head Coach
Biography
Matt Campbell was named the 17th head coach in Penn State football history on December 6, 2025. The former Iowa State head coach brings a reputation as one of the best program builders in the country. During his time in Ames, he became the winningest coach in program history, leading the Cyclones to eight winning seasons and three bowl victories. Known for his disciplined, physical teams and player development, Campbell signed an 8-year contract to lead the Nittany Lions.
Assistant Coaches
James Franklin
Former Head Coach (Now at Virginia Tech)
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. On November 17, 2025, Franklin was named head coach at Virginia Tech.
Terry Smith
Associate Head Coach / Cornerbacks
Terry Smith served as interim head coach for the final six games of the 2025 regular season, stabilizing the program and leading the team to a 3-3 record and bowl eligibility. Following the hiring of Matt Campbell, Smith was retained as Associate Head Coach and Cornerbacks Coach, becoming the highest-paid non-coordinator assistant in the country. He will coach the team in the Pinstripe Bowl.
Taylor Mouser
Offensive Coordinator / Tight Ends
Taylor Mouser followed Matt Campbell from Iowa State to become Penn State's Offensive Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach. At Iowa State, he was known for his innovative use of tight ends and efficient offensive schemes.
Tom Allen
Defensive Coordinator / Linebackers
Tom Allen is in his first season as Penn State's defensive coordinator. The former Indiana head coach (2016-2023) brings extensive Big Ten experience and a reputation for aggressive defenses. He was the 2020 AFCA National Coach of the Year after leading Indiana to a 6-2 record.
Deon Broomfield
Secondary Coach
Deon Broomfield joined the staff in December 2025, following Matt Campbell from Iowa State. A former NFL safety, Broomfield mentored some of the Big 12's top defensive backs during his time in Ames.
Ryan Clanton
Offensive Line
Ryan Clanton was hired in December 2025 to lead the offensive line. Known for developing tough, physical units at Iowa State and Northern Iowa, Clanton is tasked with continuing the "Toughness" mantra of the Campbell era.
Ja'Juan Seider
Assistant Head Coach / Co-Offensive Coordinator / Running Backs
Ja'Juan Seider is a highly respected recruiter and developer of running back talent. He has been instrumental in the success of Penn State's "LawnBoyz" running back room, developing stars like Miles Sanders, Journey Brown, Nicholas Singleton, and Kaytron Allen.
James Franklin
Former Head Coach (2014-2025)
James Franklin served as head coach from 2014 to 2025, leading the program to the 2016 Big Ten Championship and multiple New Year's Six bowl appearances. He was relieved of his duties during the 2025 season.
Noah Pauley
Wide Receivers
Noah Pauley joined the Penn State staff in December 2025, following Matt Campbell from Iowa State. He has a track record of developing elite receivers and was named the 2024 Football Scoop Wide Receivers Coach of the Year.
Jake Waters
Quarterbacks
Jake Waters, a former Kansas State quarterback, takes over the QB room. He spent the previous two seasons mentoring quarterbacks at Iowa State under Matt Campbell.
THE PENN STATE STANDARD
"The Penn State coaching staff is committed to developing young men both on and off the field. With a focus on academic excellence, character development, and competitive success, our coaches prepare student-athletes for life beyond football while striving for excellence in the Big Ten Conference and on the national stage."