Why did Penn State need to add a linebacker?
Following spring practice and some departures, Penn State sought to bolster their linebacker depth for the upcoming season.
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ARTICLE DETAIL
Penn State Adds Amare Campbell to Bolster Linebacker Depth | NCAA Appeals Trinidad Chambliss' Eligibility Injunction: What's Next? | Gunner Rivers, Son of NC State Legend Philip Rivers, Commits to Wolfpack | Elite QB Peter Bourque Decommits from Michigan, Receives Offer from Michigan State | Darian Mensah and Duke Reach Settlement, Clearing Path for Miami Transfer | SEC Faces Identity Crisis Amid Coaching Changes, QB Transitions, and Title Drought | Ohio State Buckeyes' Matt Patricia Linked to Potential NFL Move | Damon Wilson II Transfers to Miami Hurricanes | Darian Mensah's Last-Minute Transfer to Miami Sparks Controversy | Penn State Adds Amare Campbell to Bolster Linebacker Depth | NCAA Appeals Trinidad Chambliss' Eligibility Injunction: What's Next? | Gunner Rivers, Son of NC State Legend Philip Rivers, Commits to Wolfpack | Elite QB Peter Bourque Decommits from Michigan, Receives Offer from Michigan State | Darian Mensah and Duke Reach Settlement, Clearing Path for Miami Transfer | SEC Faces Identity Crisis Amid Coaching Changes, QB Transitions, and Title Drought | Ohio State Buckeyes' Matt Patricia Linked to Potential NFL Move | Damon Wilson II Transfers to Miami Hurricanes | Darian Mensah's Last-Minute Transfer to Miami Sparks Controversy
College Football / NCAA Football
Penn State Adds Amare Campbell to Bolster Linebacker Depth
Penn State has secured a commitment from former North Carolina linebacker Amare Campbell, addressing a need for depth at the linebacker position. Campbell, a 6-foot, 230-pound player with two years of eligibility remaining, is set to join t...
Key Insights
- Amare Campbell committed to Penn State after initially entering and withdrawing from the transfer portal.
- In 2024, Campbell recorded 76 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks for North Carolina.
- Campbell was ranked as the top available player in the transfer portal in early May, according to On3 Industry Rankings.
- Penn State's head coach James Franklin emphasized the need to add a linebacker through the portal after spring practice.
In-Depth Analysis
Following the departure of Ta’Mere Robinson and the graduation of Kobe King, Penn State's linebacker depth was a concern heading into the 2025 season. While veterans Dom DeLuca and Tony Rojas return, the addition of Campbell brings a needed boost of experience and talent.
Campbell's stats from the 2024 season highlight his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. With 76 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks, he demonstrated his capacity to be a playmaker. His versatility is further evidenced by five quarterback hurries, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble.
James Franklin's comments after the Blue-White game underscored the program's intention to address the linebacker situation through the transfer portal. Campbell's commitment aligns with this strategy, bringing in a player who has already proven himself at the college level.
Penn State beat out other programs, including SMU, for Campbell's commitment, showcasing the appeal of playing for “LBU” – Linebacker U – and the opportunity to compete for a top program.
FAQ
What are Amare Campbell's key stats from last season?
In 2024, Campbell recorded 76 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks for North Carolina.
Takeaways
- Amare Campbell's commitment strengthens Penn State's defense and provides valuable experience at the linebacker position.
- His addition addresses depth concerns and brings a proven playmaker to the Nittany Lions.
- Penn State's proactive approach in the transfer portal demonstrates their commitment to competing at the highest level.
Discussion
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