Penn State to Appoint Matt Campbell as New Head Football Coach

Penn State University is finalizing an agreement to appoint Matt Campbell, the current head coach at Iowa State, as the new leader of its football program. The hiring is subject to approval by the university's Board of Trustees.

"Coach Campbell is, without a doubt, the right leader at the right time for Penn State Football," said Athletic Director Patrick Kraft. "He is a stellar coach with a proven track record of success, and his values, character, and approach to leading student-athletes to success on and off the field align perfectly with the traditions and values of Penn State."

Campbell, 46, has been at the helm of Iowa State's football program since 2016, amassing a 72-55 record over ten seasons. Under his leadership, the Cyclones achieved eight winning seasons and made two appearances in the Big 12 Championship game, including an 11-3 record in 2024. Prior to his tenure at Iowa State, Campbell served as head coach at Toledo, where he compiled a 35-15 record over four seasons.

The coaching search at Penn State began following the mid-season dismissal of James Franklin after a 3-3 start. Interim head coach Terry Smith led the team to a 6-6 finish and will remain on staff under a new four-year contract.

Campbell's contract with Penn State is reported to be an eight-year deal, placing him among the top ten coaching salaries nationally. The agreement includes a buyout clause of $2 million, as Campbell had previously signed an extension with Iowa State through 2032.

A native of Massillon, Ohio, Campbell played collegiate football at Mount Union, where he was a two-time All-American defensive lineman and contributed to three consecutive national championships. His coaching career includes positions at Bowling Green and Mount Union before ascending to head coaching roles at Toledo and Iowa State.

Campbell's appointment is expected to bring stability and a fresh perspective to Penn State's football program as it aims to build upon its storied history and recent successes.