Saquon Barkley Reflects on James Franklin’s Dismissal from Penn State

The Penn State Nittany Lions have officially parted ways with head coach James Franklin after over a decade of leadership, following a disappointing stretch that saw the team suffer three consecutive losses. This performance drop has removed the Nittany Lions from the Top 25 rankings, marking a significant shift for a program that once enjoyed national prominence under Franklin’s tenure.

While the dismissal may have seemed abrupt, ongoing struggles in high-stakes games had placed Franklin’s future at the university in jeopardy. His record during critical matchups had drawn scrutiny, prompting discussions about the direction of the program. Despite this, many of Franklin’s former players and colleagues have come forward to express their support, highlighting the positive impact he had during his time at Penn State.

Among those voicing their respect for Franklin is Saquon Barkley, a standout running back who played under him and is now with the Philadelphia Eagles. Barkley described the emotional impact of Franklin’s departure, stating, “For me, seeing Coach Franklin get fired definitely hurts. That’s the guy who gave me my shot.” He acknowledged not only Franklin’s role as a coach but also his influence as a mentor, as Barkley credited him for significant moments in his career.

Barkley emphasized the success the program achieved during Franklin’s era, noting, “I know the season is not going the way we like right now, but the game before the national championship the year before, Big Ten championships.” He pointed out that at one time, Penn State was a topic of conversation in college football circles, a status that had diminished in recent years.

Reflecting on their relationship, Barkley added, “I got nothing but respect for Coach Franklin—not just as a coach, but as a man. He put a lot of himself into that program over there, and it sucks to see him go.” His sentiments resonate with many who witnessed Franklin’s commitment to the team and its players.

As Franklin begins to navigate life after Penn State, there is speculation regarding his future in coaching. Given his extensive experience and past achievements, he is expected to be a sought-after candidate for several head coaching positions in college football, should he decide to continue in the profession.

In an upcoming appearance, Franklin is set to join ESPN’s College GameDay this weekend, where he may share his thoughts on the recent developments and his plans moving forward. As the sports community reflects on Franklin’s legacy, it is evident that his contributions to Penn State will not soon be forgotten.