UPDATE: Penn State football coach Matt Campbell has just announced that special teams coordinator Justin Lustig will remain with the Nittany Lions, marking a significant decision for the team’s future. This comes on the heels of a successful second season under Lustig, as reported by Daniel Gallen of Lions 247.
In just two years, Lustig has led standout performances from his special teams unit, including the exceptional play of kicker Ryan Barker. Barker achieved a remarkable 94.7% field goal accuracy this season, converting 18 of 19 attempts, setting a school record. His overall two-year performance stands at 33 of 37 field goals, amounting to an 89.2% success rate—an all-time high for the program.
Additionally, punter Gabe Nwosu finished with a school-record punting average of 46.1 yards, propelling the Lions to a 12th place rank nationally in net punting. Nwosu’s efforts earned him a spot on the All-Big Ten third team, while kicker Barker, long snapper Tyler Duzansky, and kick returner Nick Singleton received honorable mentions.
As Penn State looks ahead, a pivotal development is emerging regarding staffing. Former Penn State defensive back D’Anton Lynn is poised to join the coaching staff as the new defensive coordinator. Lynn, who has spent the last two seasons as the defensive coordinator at USC, is transitioning to Penn State after a mutual agreement to part ways with the Trojans prior to their Alamo Bowl game, which they lost 30-27 in overtime.
On the personnel front, key players have opted to stay with the program as the NCAA transfer portal opens this Friday. Offensive linemen Anthony Donkoh and Cooper Cousins, along with tight end Andrew Rappleyea, have reaffirmed their commitment to the Nittany Lions. Donkoh started in all but two games this season, while Cousins participated in 12 games, and Rappleyea was a reliable target with 20 receptions for 180 yards and 3 touchdowns, including a crucial score in the Pinstripe Bowl victory against Clemson.
However, the team’s future remains uncertain as nine players have declared their intention to enter the transfer portal, including cornerbacks A.J. Harris and Elliot Washington II, defensive ends Chaz Coleman and Daniel Jennings, linebacker Kari Jackson, offensive lineman Alex Birchmeier, wide receiver Aaron Enterline, quarterback Bekkem Kritza, and tight end Joey Schlaffer.
As developments unfold, Penn State fans are eager to see how these changes will shape the team’s prospects heading into next season. Stay tuned for more updates on the coaching staff and player commitments as the Nittany Lions prepare for the challenges ahead.
