Penn State University is reportedly pursuing former Nittany Lions defensive back D’Anton Lynn as its next defensive coordinator. This news emerged from multiple sources on Thursday, marking a significant potential shift for the football program. Currently, Lynn is in his second season as the defensive coordinator at the University of Southern California (USC), where his unit ranks 47th in total defense and scoring defense, 62nd in rushing defense, and 80th in pass defense efficiency.
Lynn, aged 36, has an extensive coaching background, having served as the defensive coordinator at UCLA in 2023 and spending nine years as an NFL assistant with teams such as the Baltimore Ravens, Houston Texans, Buffalo Bills, and the Los Angeles Chargers. His playing career at Penn State spanned from 2008 to 2011, during which he earned All-Big Ten honorable mention three times and made 37 starts in his last 38 games. His father, Anthony Lynn, is an assistant coach with the Washington Commanders.
In addition to the potential hiring of Lynn, the current coaching staff is undergoing changes. Veteran college assistant coach Jon Heacock, who has spent the last 12 seasons as defensive coordinator for new Penn State head coach Matt Campbell at Iowa State and Toledo, may also be in consideration. His future with the Lions remains uncertain.
On the same day, Penn State announced the hiring of Jake Waters as quarterbacks coach and Noah Pauley as wide receivers coach. Both previously worked under Campbell at Iowa State, with Waters serving for five seasons and Pauley for four. These appointments follow the departure of three other on-field assistant coaches from Iowa State who have joined Campbell at Penn State: Taylor Mouser (offensive coordinator and tight ends), Deon Broomfield (secondary), and Ryan Clanton (offensive line).
Recognition for Vega Ioane
In other news, Penn State guard Vega Ioane received All-America honors from the Football Writers Association of America, which recognized him on the second team. This marks Ioane’s third All-America acknowledgment, as he was previously selected by the Walter Camp Football Foundation and The Associated Press. Interim head coach Terry Smith praised Ioane, stating, “Vega obviously had a tremendous year… He’s been instrumental to our resurgence in the run game. He’s a tremendous leader and a tremendous person.”
Future Prospects for Ethan Grunkemeyer
The performance of redshirt freshman quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer has also garnered attention, with Smith lauding his development throughout the season. “I think Ethan’s grown tremendously… I do think he is a future quarterback for Penn State. I think we can win a national championship with him,” Smith remarked.
Grunkemeyer, who stepped in for the injured Drew Allar, has led the Lions to three consecutive victories and a berth in the Pinstripe Bowl against Clemson. He boasts an impressive completion rate of 69.4%, throwing for 1,079 yards with six touchdowns and four interceptions. Over the last four games, he has completed 58 of 78 passes for 736 yards, achieving five touchdowns and just one interception.
As Grunkemeyer weighs his options for the 2026 season, he expressed admiration for Campbell and his staff, stating he will hold off on making any decisions until after the Pinstripe Bowl. Smith noted, “Each game he’s gotten better and better,” highlighting Grunkemeyer’s growth, particularly in high-pressure situations.
As Penn State navigates its coaching changes and player developments, the upcoming Pinstripe Bowl will be a focal point for the program, showcasing the talents of both Grunkemeyer and the coaching staff’s strategic direction.
