Penn State: James Franklin makes bold claim on tight ends

Under James Franklin, Penn State has sent a bevy of talented tight ends to the National Football League.

First, Jesse James became a solid contributor in the league. Afterwards, Mike Gesicki entered the league to much fanfare with the Miami Dolphins. Additionally, Pat Freiermuth is entering his first season with the Pittsburgh Steelers after being drafted 55th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.

As you can see, Franklin has seen his fair share of studs at tight end for the Nittany Lions. However, he’s calling the crop of tight ends he has this season the best he’s ever been around.

“I’d make the argument one of the best tight end groups in the country,” Franklin said, via Logan Reever of ABC27. “In fact, it’s the best tight end group I’ve ever been around in my 25 years of college football.”

Following the success Franklin has had developing talent at the position, it’s a bold claim from the head coach. However, his track record proceeds him.

Penn State Tight Ends: Who are they?

The group that Franklin is so giddy about includes Grayson Kline, Brenton Strange, Theo Johnson and Tyler Warren.

First, Kline leads the group as the elderstatement as a redshirt junior. Then, the redshirt sophomore in Strange joins the group after catching two touchdowns in 2020.

Afterwards, Johnson comes in as a sophomore who caught four passes last season. Finally, the redshirt freshman Warren is somebody who the Penn State staff is excited about, but he’s still mastering the position after playing quarterback in high school.

With so much inexperience, Franklin still believes in the group’s ability and potential.

“I think this group is pretty well rounded.”

If you’re thinking that this is nothing like the ones that featured James, Gesicki and Freiermuth, you’re right. Moreover, Franklin recognizes that too, but he believes the Nittany Lions have all their bases covered when it comes to the position.

“In other years, we’ve had some guys who are really good at receiving, who are really good at blocking, but I think this group is pretty well rounded,” said Franklin.

Evidently, Franklin isn’t the only coach that believes wholeheartedly in the position group. Additionally, first-year tight ends coach Ty Howle praised his players as well.

“We’re a tight end friendly offense,” said Howle. “It’s been awesome.

“From the offensive line side, obviously understanding the blocking schemes, the box camps, and all that has been able to help these guys in the run game and the protection game. We’re told to do things in all three phases.”

While detractors may be bullish on James Franklin’s comments, his tight ends can begin proving him right if they can help the Nittany Lions defeat Wisconsin on September 4th.