STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — The Iowa State-to-Penn State pipeline is officially open.
On Sunday, the Nittany Lions secured commitments from two key transfers who played under Matt Campbell in Ames: Tight End Benjamin Brahmer and Offensive Lineman Will Tompkins.
Benjamin Brahmer (TE)
Brahmer, a 6-foot-7 target, was a matchup nightmare in the Big 12. His decision to follow Campbell and new Offensive Coordinator Taylor Mouser makes perfect sense. With Penn State looking to revitalize its tight end usage, Brahmer provides an immediate, proven receiving threat to pair with Luke Reynolds.
Analysis: The “Power Slot” Weapon
Ben Brahmer is not just a standard in-line tight end; he is the prototype of what Taylor Mouser calls the “Power Slot.”
- Production: Leading Iowa State with 37 catches in 2025, Brahmer acted essentially as a large wide receiver.
- The Mismatch: At 6-foot-7, he is too big for nickels and too fast for linebackers. His addition signals that Penn State will run significantly more “12 personnel” (2 TE sets) to force defenses into predictable heavy packages, then spread them out with Brahmer detached from the line.