Penn State Football Community Reacts to James Franklin's Dismissal

James Franklin's tenure as head coach of Penn State football came to an abrupt end on October 12, following a string of disappointing losses that included defeats to Oregon, UCLA, and Northwestern.

Once ranked No. 2 in the Associated Press top 25 poll, expectations were high for the Nittany Lions this season, with many considering them strong contenders for the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Franklin, who had led the program since 2014, faced mounting pressure as the team struggled to find its footing. Junior linebacker Tony Rojas shared his heartfelt reaction on social media, stating, “S—- heartbreaking and don’t even feel real. I appreciate you coach for the opportunity and being so good to me and my family. Wasn’t just a great coach but someone who cared about us players and wanted to develop us as men off the field too.”

Senior quarterback Drew Allar, sidelined for the remainder of the season after an injury during the narrow loss to Northwestern, also took to Instagram to honor Franklin. He posted a lighthearted moment captured in the locker room, captioning it with multiple heart emojis.

Trace McSorley, an assistant quarterbacks coach who played under Franklin from 2015 to 2018, expressed deep gratitude in his social media tribute. “Coach, I really don’t have words to express my gratitude,” he wrote. “You believed in me when others didn’t. You pushed me to be the best player and man I could be.” McSorley emphasized the profound impact Franklin had on his life both on and off the field.

Former defensive end Micah Parsons, now a standout in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers, voiced his support for Franklin as well. “Regardless of the situation at hand, this one doesn’t feel right to me! Coach deserved better! My self and countless others wouldn’t be where we are today without Coach! Thank you,” he posted.

Penn State officially announced Franklin’s firing as a “change in football leadership,” with Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Patrick Kraft acknowledging Franklin’s contributions. “Penn State owes an enormous amount of gratitude to Coach Franklin who rebuilt our football program into a national power,” Kraft stated. He highlighted Franklin’s achievements, including a Big Ten Championship and multiple bowl game appearances.

Franklin leaves behind a record of 104-45, tying him for second place among the winningest coaches in Penn State history. However, his inability to secure victories against top-ranked teams—finishing 4-21 against top 10 opponents—ultimately contributed to his dismissal.