STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — The dust has settled on the 2025 season, but the roster movement is just beginning.
Following Penn State’s Pinstripe Bowl victory, attention turns immediately to the transfer portal, where head coach Matt Campbell is aggressively reshaping the roster.
The Quarterback Target: Rocco Becht
The worst-kept secret in State College is the mutual interest between Penn State and Rocco Becht. The former Iowa State quarterback officially entered the transfer portal earlier this week. Verified reports indicate Penn State is the “early favorite” to land him.
Becht threw for over 9,000 yards and 64 touchdowns during his three seasons playing for Campbell at Iowa State. His arrival would provide immediate stability and system knowledge to the quarterback room, potentially creating a fascinating competition with incumbent starter Ethan Grunkemeyer.
Explosive Weapon: Nick Marsh
Another major name linked to the Nittany Lions is former Michigan State wide receiver Nick Marsh. The talented pass-catcher declared his intent to transfer on December 1 and has been in contact with Penn State staff. Marsh (1,311 yards, 9 TDs at MSU) would bring the vertical threat the offense has lacked.
Departures: A.J. Harris and More
The roster churn continues with departures as well. Verified sources confirm that cornerback A.J. Harris, a starter in the secondary, is expected to enter the transfer portal now that the season has concluded. He did not play in the Pinstripe Bowl.
Other notable expected exits include:
- Chaz Coleman (DE)
- Aaron Enterline (WR)
- Kari Jackson (LB)
With the portal window officially opening on January 2, 2026, expect a flurry of commitments and departures in the coming days as Campbell builds his inaugural roster.