Penn State’s athletic director Pat Kraft is facing criticism after missing on top coaching targets.,The university’s prolonged search for a new head coach is now drawing public embarrassment and administrative involvement.Penn State’s extensive coaching search has transitioned from quiet confidence to public embarrassment within days. Athletic director Pat Kraft is now under scrutiny after failing to secure his top choice, BYU’s Kalani Sitake. Jeff Brohm of Louisville also declined the position on Wednesday, marking another coach who leveraged Penn State’s interest for a contract extension.
Following the dismissal of James Franklin on October 12, 2025, Penn State was considered the premier job available. However, as weeks have passed and other coaching vacancies at institutions like LSU, Florida, and Auburn have been filled, the Nittany Lions remain without a head coach. FootballScoop reported that senior members of Penn State’s administration have increased their involvement in the search, which did not utilize a third-party firm.
Amidst this turmoil and a nearly empty early signing day, Penn State is exploring potential candidates to replace Franklin. As of Thursday morning, several individuals are considered viable options:
Matt Campbell, Iowa State: The 46-year-old head coach has a 50-40 record in Big 12 play with Iowa State, transforming the program into a consistent winner. His overall record in 15 years at Iowa State and Toledo is 107-70. Campbell is known for building a strong culture and developing recruits, and has previously attracted NFL interest.
Manny Diaz, Duke: The former defensive coordinator for Penn State in 2022 and 2023, Diaz was an early candidate and could regain momentum. Kraft has a history with Diaz, having hired him at Temple in December 2018 before Diaz left for the Miami job. Diaz has a 37-24 record in five seasons at Miami and Duke and is well-respected by players and staff.
Dan Mullen, UNLV: A native of Drexel Hill and a former Ursinus letterman, Mullen was a candidate before Penn State hired Bill O’Brien in 2011. He had a 103-61 record at Mississippi State and Florida from 2009-21 before working as an ESPN analyst. Mullen returned to coaching this season, leading UNLV to a 10-2 record.
Jeff Hafley, Green Bay Packers: Hafley, the current defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, worked with Kraft at Boston College from 2020-22. The New Jersey native has experience with Pitt and Rutgers and is familiar with the region. He is considered a bright mind and a capable coach, but his departure from Boston College for the NFL suggests a potential reluctance to return to the college landscape, particularly the NIL environment.
Brian Daboll, free agent: The recently fired head coach of the New York Giants is considered a legitimate candidate. Sports Illustrated confirmed Daboll was considered after Penn State missed out on Brohm. Daboll has one year of college experience as Alabama’s offensive coordinator in 2017, earning an endorsement from Nick Saban. He also served as offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills from 2018-21 under Penn State donor Terry Pegula. As Giants’ coach from 2022 to his dismissal last month, he posted a 20-40-1 record. His suitability for a college head coaching role, however, remains a question.
Terry Smith, Penn State: The interim head coach has garnered support from some current players, former players, and fans, particularly after wearing a “409” button during the Nebraska game. Reports indicate he also has donor support. As a beloved assistant, Smith has been a key recruiter with significant influence. However, his lack of experience running a program outside of this interim role is a concern. Hiring him after an extensive search and an almost-empty early signing day would signal a failed mission for Kraft. Despite these concerns, Smith remains an option within the organization.
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