Penn State is gearing up for the 2026 college football season with a roster that could rank among the most experienced in the nation, especially at the tight end position.
The Nittany Lions have assembled a tight end group that blends veteran savvy with fresh talent, a combination that could prove decisive on the field.
A Deep and Veteran Tight End Group
According to internal rankings, Penn State sits 10th nationally in games started with 400 cumulative starts, while the team is 18th in returning game snaps, underscoring the continuity of its core players.
The tight end position stands out as the most seasoned and deepest unit on the squad, a fact highlighted by the coaching staff and analysts alike.
Key contributors include Iowa State transfers Ben Brahmer and Gabe Burkle, who bring proven production from the Big 12, alongside returning junior Andrew Rappleyea, who emerged as the team's primary tight end down the stretch last season.
Brahmer, a 6‑foot‑7 senior, earned second‑team all‑Big 12 honors after leading the Cyclones with 37 receptions and six touchdown catches, while Burkle has started games for two consecutive seasons at Iowa State, adding depth and versatility.
Rappleyea caught 20 passes in his junior year and is expected to anchor the group as the clear No. 1 tight end heading into the new campaign.
Implications for the Upcoming Season
The experience across the tight end corps not only adds a reliable target in the passing game but also provides a stabilizing force in blocking schemes and red‑zone situations. If the unit stays healthy, it could become a cornerstone of Penn State's offensive identity.
Head coach Matt Campbell, who previously coached at Iowa State, is expected to leverage his familiarity with Brahmer and Burkle, while also integrating younger players such as sophomore Cooper Alexander, who saw limited action last season but brings a redshirt freshman perspective.
The broader context of the roster's experience is reinforced by the presence of other returning starters and the continuity of the coaching staff, all of which suggest that Penn State may enter the season with a competitive edge, especially in tightly contested matchups.