Penn State Welcomes Back Trace McSorley as Assistant QB Coach.
Penn State football has officially welcomed back one of its most beloved players, Trace McSorley, as an assistant quarterbacks coach. The former Nittany Lions star and ex-NFL quarterback is set to join James Franklin’s coaching staff, bringing his wealth of experience and leadership to the program where he made a lasting impact.
McSorley’s Return to Happy Valley
McSorley, who played at Penn State from 2014 to 2018, is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in the program’s history. He led the Nittany Lions to a Big Ten Championship in 2016 and finished his collegiate career as the school’s all-time leader in passing yards (9,899) and touchdowns (77). Known for his toughness, mobility, and clutch performances, McSorley became a fan favorite during his time in Happy Valley.
After an impressive college career, McSorley was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He spent time with the Ravens, Arizona Cardinals, and New England Patriots before stepping away from professional football. His brief stint with the Patriots in 2023 marked his last NFL stop before transitioning into coaching.
A New Role on Franklin’s Staff
Now, McSorley returns to Penn State in a new capacity, joining the coaching staff as an assistant quarterbacks coach. While the role will primarily focus on mentoring young quarterbacks, his deep understanding of the program’s culture and offensive system makes him a valuable addition.
Head coach James Franklin expressed excitement about bringing McSorley back into the fold. “Trace embodies everything we want in a Penn State football player—toughness, leadership, and a relentless drive to succeed. We’re thrilled to have him back in the program, now helping to develop the next generation of Nittany Lion quarterbacks,” Franklin said in a statement.
Impact on Penn State’s Quarterbacks
McSorley’s presence could have a significant impact on Penn State’s current and future quarterbacks. His firsthand knowledge of Franklin’s system, coupled with his NFL experience, provides a unique perspective that can help young signal-callers refine their skills and mental approach to the game.
With rising talent in the quarterback room, including projected starter Drew Allar, McSorley’s mentorship could prove invaluable. His ability to relate to players and share real-game experiences will likely resonate with the team and enhance their development.
A Homecoming for a Nittany Lion Legend
For McSorley, this opportunity represents more than just a job—it’s a homecoming. His name is etched in Penn State history, and now, he has the chance to contribute to the program in a new way. As he transitions into coaching, Penn State fans will be eager to see how his influence shapes the future of the team’s quarterback play.
McSorley’s return to Happy Valley is a full-circle moment that brings experience, passion, and leadership back to Penn State football. Nittany Lions fans can now look forward to seeing one of their all-time greats help guide the next chapter of the program’s success.
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