Penn State football isn't afraid to think outside the box in order to find its next head coach. That's not just specific to college coaches either. The Nittany Lions have some NFL options, though very limited. One of them is a lot clearer than the others, and his name is still on the board of possibilities.
Joel Klatt is convinced Penn State has a plan up its sleeve
Former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll is reportedly having talks with Penn State. According to John Brice of Football Scoop, sources say the Nittany Lions and Daboll "reengaged talks" with one another. Brice also reported that Houston Texans head coach Willie Fritz has not had contact with Penn State about the job.
A couple things on the @PennStateFball search: Sources tell @FootballScoop that Houston HC Willie Fritz, who’s engineered a stellar 9-win season, has had “zero contact” with Penn St officials. Multiple sources share Penn State has reengaged talks with ex @Giants HC Brian Daboll
— John Brice (@JohnDBrice1) December 4, 2025
Brian Daboll is still in conversation to land Penn State's head coach job
Daboll is one of the best remaining options for the Nittany Lions. The best hired from the college landscape passed up on Penn State either signing contracts with their current teams or taking jobs at other schools. However, a big, splash-worthy hire is still available and that's landing Daboll.
The former Giants head coach has college coaching experience. In 2017, he was offensive coordinator on Nick Saban's staff, the season Alabama won the national championship. He understands recruitment, though navigating NIL is a different beast in itself, and proved he can succeed at multiple levels.
Making him stand out from other candidates, too, is Saban publicly endorsing him.
On The Pat McAfee Show, Saban backed Daboll as a smart coach, good recruiter, and good person in terms of relatability to players. He said he's also a good teacher with the ability to piece together a good staff. Saban emphasized that Daboll is "an outstanding hire" for Penn State.
Daboll can bring a new energy and life to Happy Valley. Hiring him marks a shift in the program, a new era. That's what the Nittany Lions need. They need a coach that can put Franklin's era to rest and surge beyond that. While other college coaches are a question as to whether they fit in the Penn State culture and can meet the high expectations, Daboll has one of the best shots at doing so.
If the Nittany Lions are keen on branching out and getting creative, Daboll should remain in the conversation.