Penn State’s football roster continues to change, with its leading tackler and others entering the transfer portal and three former Iowa State players committing to the Nittany Lions.
Linebacker Amare Campbell, an All-Big Ten third-team selection, announced Sunday that he’s leaving Penn State after he made 103 tackles, including 64 solo, 9.5 in the backfield and three sacks in 2025.
He also recovered a fumble and returned it 61 yards for the game-winning touchdown against Rutgers. He has one year of eligibility remaining after transferring from North Carolina last year.
“Unfortunately, once again I find myself in a situation where I can’t allow myself to be undervalued,” Campbell wrote on social media. “I have to do what’s best for my family, my future and myself.”
He praised Penn State fans and later said in a reply, “Decision is strictly principle. Can’t allow disrespect. Love you all!”
Junior safety Marcus Neal Jr. announces Sunday that he’s transferring from Iowa State to Penn State. (AP Photo/Justin Hayworth)
Besides Campbell, freshman tight end Andrew Olesh, who was a highly rated prospect, reportedly is headed to the transfer portal. Olesh was a high school star at Southern Lehigh who flipped from Michigan to Penn State. He did not play for the Lions in 2025 and has four years of eligibility left.
Junior cornerback Zion Tracy, who started nine games in 2025, announced he’s returning to Penn State, along with freshman cornerback Jahmir Joseph.
Offensive lineman Dominic Rulli, who played well in his first start in the Pinstripe Bowl, also announced that he’s coming back to the Lions. And redshirt freshman wide receiver Tyseer Denmark announced that he’s staying at Penn State.
Three former Iowa State players announced they’re transferring and reuniting with Penn State coach Matt Campbell.
Safety Marcus Neal Jr., an All-Big 12 third-team selection, was an impact player for the Cyclones in 2025, making 77 tackles, 11 in the backfield, one sack, two interceptions, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble.
Neal will be a junior in the fall and has two years of eligibility left.
Tight end Ben Brahmer caught 37 passes for 446 yards and a team-high six touchdowns for Iowa State. A 6-7, 255-pound junior, he played in every game for the Cyclones.
Offensive lineman Will Tompkins also has committed to the Lions. A 6-5, 300-pound freshman, he was once a three-star prospect who was recruited by Penn State coming out of high school.
