Penn State's New Coach: Who Should Matt Campbell Recruit? (2026)

11 Iowa State Players Matt Campbell Should Bring to Penn State

Penn State has appointed Matt Campbell as its new head coach, following the departure of James Franklin. With the transfer portal opening on January 2, Campbell and the Nittany Lions face the challenge of replenishing their roster, which has been depleted by the graduation of many seniors and the departure of underclassmen.

Here are 11 key players from Iowa State that Campbell should consider bringing to Penn State:

1. Redshirt Junior Quarterback Rocco Becht: Becht has been a consistent starter for Campbell, earning second-team All-America and Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year honors in 2023, and an all-Big 12 honorable mention in 2024. His efficiency and dual-threat capabilities make him a valuable asset.

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2. Junior Running Backs Carson Hanson and Abu Sama III: Hanson and Sama formed a strong backfield duo for Iowa State, with Hanson accumulating 950 yards and six touchdowns, and Sama contributing 732 yards and five scores. Their productivity and versatility make them attractive recruits.

3. Junior Tight End Benjamin Brahmer: Brahmer, a massive 6-7 and 255 pounds, was a key player for Iowa State, earning freshman All-American and All-Big 12 honorable mention honors in 2023. His size and productivity make him a valuable tight end prospect.

4. Sophomore Defensive Back Marcus Neal Jr.: Neal Jr. was a standout performer for Iowa State's defense, earning third-team All-Big 12 honors. His ability to make tackles and intercept passes makes him a strong candidate for the Nittany Lions' secondary.

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5. Redshirt Junior Defensive Back Jontez Williams: Williams, despite not having impressive statistics, was a top defender for Iowa State, allowing only 8 receptions in 15 coverage targets. His experience and leadership make him a valuable addition to the defensive backfield.

6. Junior Linebacker Kooper Ebel: Ebel, who tied with Neal Jr. in tackles, brings strong numbers and experience to the linebacker position. His ability to break up passes and make tackles makes him a valuable recruit.

7. Redshirt Junior Wide Receiver Chase Sowell: Sowell, who has played at three different schools, brings versatility and big-play potential to the wide receiver position. His size and productivity make him an attractive option for Campbell.

8. Sophomore Wide Receiver Brett Eskildsen: Eskildsen, a big-name transfer, led the Cyclones in receiving yards and touchdowns in 2025. His experience and productivity make him a valuable addition to the wide receiver corps.

9. 2026 4-Star Wide Receiver Jeffrey Roberts: Roberts, a top-500 prospect, is an intriguing wide receiver prospect with a strong connection to Campbell. His size and productivity make him a valuable addition to the Nittany Lions' receiving corps.

10. 2026 3-Star Defensive End Elijah Reeder: Reeder, a top-500 signee, brings strong defensive end skills to the team. His ability to make tackles and sacks makes him a valuable recruit for the Nittany Lions' defense.

11. Junior Linebacker Kooper Ebel (Again): Ebel's strong numbers and experience in the 3-3-5 scheme make him a valuable addition to the linebacker position, especially if Campbell brings his longtime defensive coordinator, Jon Heacock, with him to Penn State.