How Penn State handled transfer portal in 2025

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James Franklin made one thing crystal clear at Big Ten Media Day; Penn State isn’t building through the transfer portal. They’ll use it, sure. But they’re not living in it like some other programs. For Franklin, it’s always been about player development and creating depth through high school recruiting. The portal? That’s just a tool, not the foundation.

Franklin said Penn State added a few transfers this offseason, but was super intentional with who they brought in. He emphasized how hard it is to get it right every time in the portal. There’s way more that goes into it than just grabbing talent. Fit, character, positional need, and development timeline all matter. And sometimes the player doesn’t want to compete — they want a guaranteed role. That’s not how things work in Happy Valley.

Franklin also called out the fact that fans don’t always understand the behind-the-scenes. Just because a high-profile name enters the portal doesn’t mean Penn State should or will chase them. Sometimes, the guys already in the room are better, but they just need a chance to grow. And developing players is what Franklin believes his staff does best.

Another reason Penn State isn’t going portal-crazy? The culture. Franklin said it’s one of the strongest locker rooms he’s ever had. When you keep bringing in dudes who haven’t been through the grind with the team, it can throw off that balance. That’s why every transfer they do bring in has to be the right personality — not just the right player.

In a year where everyone’s looking for quick fixes, Franklin is playing the long game. He trusts his staff, his development process, and most importantly, his players. The portal might be trendy, but Penn State’s staying true to what built the program: relationships, culture, and toughness.

The goal for 2025 isn’t just to win — it’s to win the right way. And Franklin believes this squad is built for it.

This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: James Franklin confident in Penn State's transfer portal strategy



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