Are there any fans of Lord of the Rings? A hot streak at Penn State’s transfer portal continues on Sunday, which is The Return of the King in Happy Valley.
King Mack, a former safety for Alabama, declared on social media his dedication to the Nittany Lions. After spring practices in 2023, he transferred to Tuscaloosa after spending his first season at Penn State.In early January, the native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, had returned to the transfer gateway.
Mack was just brought back to the Penn State team in a crucial safety position. After suffering a season-ending injury this year, star veteran Jaylen Reed has reached the end of his eligibility, while brilliant junior Kevin Winston Jr. has declared for the NFL Draft. While talented freshman Dejuan Lane burnt his redshirt at the position this season, safety coach Anthony Poindexter will also bring back starter Zakee Wheatley in 2025.
As a freshman, Mack had 13 appearances for Penn State, primarily on special teams, and he recorded three tackles. Prior to his transfer, he was a highly touted young player, but in 2024, he only made seven tackles and again struggled on special teams at Alabama.
James Franklin, who advocates for complete dedication to the team under all conditions, is usually adamant about preventing transfer portal participants from rejoining the program. However, Penn State obviously felt comfortable bringing a guy back at a crucial position because Mack didn’t damage any relationships on his way out last year.
Since losing in the Orange Bowl to close up the 2024 season, Penn State and Franklin have been on a transfer portal binge. TJ Shannahan, an offensive lineman transferred from Texas A&M, joined the Lions on Friday. Owen Wafle, a defensive lineman for Michigan, formally committed on Saturday. Additionally, Penn State probably has more to add after Mack.
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Max Ralph