James Franklin is a guy who believes in giving players a second chance. At least his actions would indicate so.

Before the Penn State head coach took the podium for the program’s official media day on Saturday, reporters in attendance noticed that linebacker Manny Bowen, who was dismissed from the team last December for a violation of team rules, was back on the roster.

Bowen was a key contributor to Penn State’s defense last fall, but missed the final four games of the season — including the Fiesta Bowl game against Washington. The linebacker was officially dismissed from the team in December for a violation of team rules.

In nine games last season, Bowen racked up 51 tackles, 3.5 stops for loss and forced a fumble. In three seasons with the Nittany Lions, Bowen has totaled 137 stops and 12.5 tackles for loss.

The senior linebacker could have a critical role on Penn State’s defense in 2018 if he stays in the good graces of his head coach and teammates.