Franklin discusses Jim Knowles’ quiet approach, an offensive lineman taking a step and the Nittany Lion with the most “horsespower.”
Penn State entered the second week of spring football practice without some experienced offensive linemen, while both new and veteran players have caught head coach James Franklin’s attention in other areas. As the Nittany Lions work toward their Aug. 30 season opener against Nevada, here’s a look at key developments during spring camp.
Jim Knowles’ Quiet Approach
Penn State’s new defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, isn’t expected to bring the same vocal presence to practice as his predecessors, Manny Diaz or Tom Allen. Instead, he takes a more observant approach, speaking when necessary.
“Jim is a man of few words,” Franklin told reporters in State College during his first April post-practice availability. “That applies to staff meetings in the mornings and out here on the field. He believes in spending significant time in the meeting room, taking notes—similar to how I do—and then making his key points to the coaches in meetings.
“We review film in the mornings, and he’s incredibly thorough and detailed. That allows him to be comfortable on the field, letting the coaches handle their roles. But from a broader perspective, he understands exactly what he wants the defense to look like and how everything should fit together.”
Offensive Line Openings
With starting tackles Anthony Donkoh and Nolan Rucci unavailable this spring—Donkoh recovering from a late-season injury and Rucci also sidelined—Penn State has extra reps to distribute.
That has given redshirt sophomore J’Ven Williams an extended look at right tackle, lining up opposite Drew Shelton on the left side. A 4-star recruit from Wyomissing (Pa.) High, Williams spent his freshman year learning behind Olu Fashanu, the former All-American left tackle.
Williams saw action in five games last season, working at both guard and tackle, and has shown progress—particularly in pass protection, which wasn’t a major focus in his high school’s run-heavy system.
“It was a bit of an adjustment because his high school barely threw the ball—maybe five times in his three-year career,” Franklin said. “So, the passing game was something we had to develop. But he’s a strong run blocker, great in space, and has a fantastic attitude. His future is very bright.”
“If Rucci and Donkoh were available, Williams would be splitting time between tackle and guard. But with his performance so far, he’s firmly in the competition for the right tackle spot.”
Battle for the No. 3 Running Back
With returning standouts Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen needing limited live reps this spring, Penn State is using the opportunity to evaluate candidates for the No. 3 running back role. Franklin made it clear that the team plans to use a three-back rotation next season, with contributions in the passing game playing a role.
That makes this spring crucial for players like Quinton Martin Jr., Corey Smith, Cam Wallace, and true freshman Tikey Hayes.
“We’re going to play three running backs, and there’s a battle for that third spot,” Franklin said. “Last year, we tried to redshirt guys like Martin and Smith, but now they’ve been through that process. They’re not only competing to be the third back but also for a significant role on special teams, which is just as important.”
Veteran Cornerback Steps Up
During winter workouts, Penn State’s position coaches recognize standout performers with a “competitor of the day” award. This past winter, cornerback Elliot Washington II dominated his group, earning the honor in all six workout sessions—an achievement Franklin couldn’t recall happening before at either Penn State or Vanderbilt.
Now a junior, Washington saw significant playing time last season, including a start against Kent State, and finished the year with an interception and six pass breakups. With Jalen Kimber heading to the NFL, Washington is making a strong case for a full-time starting role in the secondary.
“Elliot shows up ready to work every single day,” Franklin said. “He keeps improving, and he’s incredibly explosive—arguably the most explosive player on our team in terms of speed and raw athleticism. There’s a lot of excitement around him, and he’s earned it.”
Penn State will hold its annual Blue-White Game on April 26 at Beaver Stadium, with kickoff set for 2 p.m. ET.
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