Penn State Football Spring Storyline: The New Guys
What role will some of the new guys play at Penn State this season?
Spring practice at Penn State makes the perfect time for some new players to step up and show what they have. As the Nittany Lions progress through spring practice, a storyline to watch will be how the new guys perform. Head coach James Franklin and his coaching staff will get to see several players who are either brand new to the program, or who were given a red shirt in 2016.
When looking at the roster, some intriguing names pop up as redshirt freshmen.
Offensive linemen Will Fries and Michal Menet will both provide talent and depth to an improving offensive line. Menet was a four-star receipt in 2016 and considered one of the best linemen available. He will likely find himself in a starting role right away. Fries, who almost had his red shirt burned a year ago when injuries took a toll on the line, will also be in line for ample playing time in 2017.
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Three-star tight end Danny Dalton will be another name to watch throughout the spring and summer. He’ll be in a position battle to be the backup to Mike Gesicki.
Defense is where the most new faces reside.
Highlighting the group is a pair of top recruits in Shane Simmons and Lamont Wade. Simmons — one of the best available defensive ends in the 2016 class — used last year to develop in the program and will look to nab a starting role this year. Wade, who enrolled in January, was widely considered as the best defensive back available for 2017. Spring will be his first opportunity to show off his skills.
Also new on the defensive side will be redshirt freshmen linemen Shaka Toney and Ellison Jordan, and defensive back Zech McPhearson.
Penn State enters the new season with a wealth of returning talent and experience on both sides of the ball. Added to that mix will be some new faces that will help the team improve upon the success of last season.
Next: Penn State Football Early Position Preview 2017: Special Teams
As spring practice rolls on, keep an eye on what the new guys do to help the Nittany Lions.