Coach Matt Campbell has been busy steering Penn State’s training camp as the Nittany Lions navigate a slate of injuries that have kept several starters sidelined early in the preseason.
Camp Overview
The most anticipated development has been the return of running back Carson Hansen, who missed the first scrimmage but is now back in practice and poised to reclaim a starting role thanks to his durability and deep familiarity with the offense.
At the receiving corps, Brett Eskilden has emerged as a focal point, his speed and high‑potential playmaking ability making him a key piece of the offense as the team looks to diversify its attack.
The tight end position, historically thin for Penn State, is seeing a gradual revival. Andrew Rappleyea, who has been limited during camp, has shown flashes of promise when on the field, while Gabe Burkle, still recovering from an ACL tear sustained in November 2025, is working through a cautious rehabilitation.
Adding depth at the same position, Cooper Alexander has also missed time, compounding the challenges but also providing opportunities for younger players to step up.
On defense, the secondary is stabilizing after a series of setbacks. Cornerbacks Daryus Dixson and Zion Tracy, along with safety Jeremiah Cooper, have all returned to practice, with Dixson posting strong reps and Tracy battling a hand injury while still contributing.
Transfer safety Dallas Vakalahi, a junior from Utah, is also making incremental progress after missing spring drills, bolstering the defensive depth chart.
Veteran right tackle Anthony Donkoh, the most experienced lineman on the unit, has been delivering quality reps and is re‑establishing himself as the anchor of the offensive line.
With the training camp set to wrap up this week, the focus shifts to the season opener against Marshall on September 5 at Beaver Stadium, a matchup that will test the cohesion of a roster blending returning stars with fresh talent.