As December arrives and the transfer portal window approaches, the search for Penn State’s next head football coach appears to have hit a significant snag. What began as a wide-ranging national search by Athletic Director Pat Kraft has seen several top reported targets sign contract extensions with their current programs, leaving the Nittany Lions in a precarious position.
Top Targets Off the Board
In the last 48 hours, the landscape of the coaching carousel has shifted dramatically against Penn State’s favor.
Kalani Sitake, widely rumored to be a primary target after leading BYU to a potential Big 12 title, has reportedly agreed to a long-term extension to remain in Provo. Sitake’s connection to the program and his success this season made him an attractive candidate, but he has chosen to stay put.
Similarly, Curt Cignetti, who has orchestrated a miraculous turnaround at Indiana, quickly signed a new deal with the Hoosiers, ending any speculation about him leaving for Happy Valley. Mike Elko at Texas A&M has also reaffirmed his commitment to the Aggies with a contract extension.
With other potential candidates like Matt Rhule and Eli Drinkwitz also seemingly off the table, the pool of proven, high-profile head coaches interested in the position has shrunk considerably.
The Case for Terry Smith
As the external search faces headwinds, support is swelling for interim head coach Terry Smith.
Since taking over a 3-6 team in crisis following the firing of James Franklin, Smith has led the Nittany Lions to three consecutive victories, including a gritty 40-36 win over Rutgers to secure bowl eligibility. The team’s turnaround has been built on a “back-to-basics” approach, improved discipline, and a revitalized rushing attack led by Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton.
“Coach Smith saved this season,” said senior safety Zakee Wheatley after the Rutgers win. “He brought us together when everything was falling apart. We’re playing for him.”
Smith, a Penn State alum and long-time assistant, offers stability and continuity—factors that are becoming increasingly appealing as the Early Signing Day (December 4th) passes without a permanent head coach. Promoting Smith would likely help retain the current roster and salvage the 2026 recruiting class, which has been in limbo.
What’s Next?
Pat Kraft faces a defining decision. Does he continue to chase a “splash” hire from a dwindling list of external candidates, potentially dragging the search into bowl season? Or does he remove the interim tag from Terry Smith, rewarding the man who stabilized the program and earned the locker room’s trust?
With the transfer portal opening soon, a decision is needed imminent. For now, the Nittany Lions await their bowl destination—likely Detroit or New York—while the program’s future leadership remains the biggest question mark in State College.