The Penn State Nittany Lions have parted ways with head coach James Franklin following a disappointing stretch that saw the team lose three consecutive games. This decision ends Franklin’s tenure, which lasted over a decade and included notable successes, but ultimately fell short in crucial matchups. The dismissal comes after the team, once ranked among the top contenders in college football, completely dropped out of the Top 25.
Franklin’s exit was not entirely unexpected. Under his leadership, the Nittany Lions frequently struggled to perform in high-pressure situations, leading to increasing scrutiny over his coaching effectiveness. Despite the culmination of his time at Penn State, the reaction to his firing has been one of sadness and respect, particularly among former players and colleagues.
One of Franklin’s most prominent former players, Saquon Barkley, now a running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, expressed his disappointment regarding the coach’s dismissal. Barkley reflected on the significant impact Franklin had on his career, stating, “For me, seeing Coach Franklin get fired definitely hurts. That’s the guy who gave me my shot.” He highlighted the team’s achievements during Franklin’s tenure, including appearances in the Big Ten Championships and a near national title run.
Barkley emphasized his respect for Franklin, saying, “I got nothing but respect for Coach Franklin—not just as a coach, but as a man.” He acknowledged Franklin’s role in shaping his life, describing him as a significant figure, akin to a father figure. “He put a lot of himself into that program over there and it sucks to see him go,” Barkley added.
As the Nittany Lions look ahead, Franklin’s future remains uncertain, though he is expected to be a sought-after candidate for other coaching positions in college football. His experience and previous success make him an attractive option for programs looking for a new leader.
In the meantime, Franklin is scheduled to make an appearance on ESPN’s College GameDay this weekend, where he may share his thoughts on his dismissal and potential next steps in his coaching career. The situation continues to develop, and many in the college football community will be watching closely to see where both Franklin and the Nittany Lions go from here.
