As the 2025 regular season draws to a close, the search for Penn State’s next head football coach is entering its final stages. Athletic Director Patrick Kraft has reportedly narrowed the field of candidates, with a decision expected as early as the first week of December to stabilize the program ahead of the early signing period and transfer portal window.
Following the mid-season dismissal of James Franklin, the search committee has worked quietly but aggressively. While official comments are non-existent, industry sources and betting markets have identified two clear frontrunners.
The Frontrunners
Bob Chesney (James Madison)
The current betting favorite and a name gaining significant traction is James Madison head coach Bob Chesney. A Pennsylvania native with a proven track record of winning at every level (D-III, D-II, FCS, and now FBS), Chesney fits the profile of a program builder. His success at James Madison has proven his ability to adapt to higher levels of competition quickly. Sources indicate his interview impressed key stakeholders, and his local ties are seen as a major asset for recruiting in the state.
Kalen DeBoer (Alabama)
The “dream candidate” for many Penn State boosters remains Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer. While prying a coach away from Tuscaloosa is historically difficult, rumors persist that DeBoer could be open to a move depending on how Alabama’s season concludes. If the Crimson Tide miss the College Football Playoff, the pressure cooker of the SEC might make a return to the Big Ten (where he had success at Indiana) appealing. This remains a more difficult pull than Chesney, but Penn State is reportedly willing to make a massive financial commitment.
Other Names in the Mix
Marcus Freeman (Notre Dame): While an initial target, Freeman is widely considered unlikely to leave South Bend, especially after signing a contract extension through 2030 last year.
Brian Hartline (Ohio State OC): The recruiting ace has supporters within the Board of Trustees, but his lack of head coaching experience and deep ties to Ohio State are significant hurdles.
The Interim Situation
Interim Head Coach Terry Smith has done an admirable job stabilizing the program, leading the team to wins in two of their last five games after an 0-5 start to his tenure. Players have publicly lobbied for Smith to get the permanent job.
“Coach Smith held us together when everything was falling apart,” running back Kaytron Allen said after the Nebraska win. “He deserves a shot.”
Smith is expected to receive a formal interview for the permanent position, a courtesy often extended to successful interim coaches. However, sources suggest it is highly unlikely he will be retained as the permanent head coach, though the next head coach would be wise to keep him on staff given his recruiting prowess and connection to the locker room.
Timeline
Expect an announcement shortly after the Big Ten Championship Game. Penn State officials are keen to have the new coach in place before the transfer portal opens on December 8th, ensuring the Nittany Lions can retain their current roster talent and begin rebuilding for 2026 immediately.