Skip to content

Ad Disclosure

James Franklin reacts to DL coach John Scott Jr. leaving Penn State for NFL

Andrew Olson

By Andrew Olson

Published:

James Franklin confirmed the reported departure of defensive line coach John Scott Jr.

Scott, who also held the run game coordinator title, is leaving Penn State to join the Detroit Lions’ staff. Franklin shared a statement Monday evening wishing Scott well on his new gig.

“I would like to thank John for everything he has contributed to our program over the past 3 years. John is a great coach and also a great man. I am grateful for his friendship and the impact he has had on our student-athletes. This was a great opportunity for him in the NFL and I wish him and his family nothing but the best.”

Scott helped develop Odafe Oweh, Arnold Ebiketie and Shaka Toney into NFL Draft picks during his time at Penn State. PJ Mustipher is expected to be selected in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft.

Franklin may have seen Scott’s departure coming. A coach since 2001, Scott has never spent more than 3 seasons with the same team. Franklin will be moving quickly to find Scott’s replacement in time for PSU’s spring practice, which begins 2 weeks from Tuesday.

Andrew Olson

A former Florida beat reporter, Andrew writes for the Saturday Tradition News Desk.