Penn State’s Costly Coaching Hunt Takes New Twist

Penn State is still looking for a new head coach more than 50 days after James Franklin left. The search has already caused more than $370 million in raises and contract extensions for coaches around the country.

On3 reported on December 3 that Penn State’s coaching hunt “has netted other coaches an estimated $370.8 million in extension money.” In short, schools have been paying big money to keep top coaches away from Penn State.

Indiana achieved the greatest splash with a huge deal of eight years and 92.8 million dollars with Curt Cignetti, one of the most sought-after Penn State recruits.

Missouri didn’t wait either, giving Eli Drinkwitz a six-year, $10.75 million contract. BYU also upgraded Kalani Sitake’s deal to about $9-$9.5 million per year. With these deals, Penn State lost several top coaching options.

New names have started to appear. Analyst Joel Klatt mentioned Manny Diaz, former Penn State defensive coordinator now at Duke, and Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer as possible options.

The coach getting the most attention is former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll. FootballScoop’s John Brice said Penn State is talking with Daboll again. Betting site Kalshi lists him at 33% chance to get the job. Daboll doesn’t have deep Penn State ties, but his son once worked there. He also was Alabama’s offensive coordinator when they won the 2017 national championship.

Still, interim coach Terry Smith is the favorite. Kalshi has him at 43% chance. Smith got a big boost after National Signing Day. Penn State’s 2026 recruiting class struggled, ranking No. 150 with only two signees. But one of them, quarterback Peyton Falzone, joined because of Smith.

Another possible rival, Bob Chesney from James Madison, seems headed to UCLA, clearing the path further. After a chaotic search and millions spent, Penn State may finally be close to hiring its next head coach.

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