Penn State defensive tackle Judge Culpepper is entering the transfer portal, the reserve defensive lineman commuting his time in ‘Happy Valley.’ It is a bit of a surprise move given that Culpepper saw an expanded role this season for the Nittany Lions.

A redshirt sophomore, Culpepper registered five tackles and half-a-sack in 2020, marking his most significant contribution of his collegiate career. He had a career-high three tackles in early November during a loss to Maryland.

Given his expanded role and reasonably solid production this past season, it is surprising to see the jury out on Culpepper’s time at Penn State. Seemingly, he was ready for an expanded role in 2021.

Last year as a redshirt freshman, Culpepper played primarily on special teams.

A former three-star recruit, Culpepper had offers from programs such as Alabama, Florida, Louisville, LSU, Michigan, Nebraska and Notre Dame among others.

He also had offers from other Big Ten programs such as Michigan State, Minnesota and Wisconsin – all programs that could potentially have interest in the interior defensive lineman.