Former Penn State linebacker Jamari Buddin picks transfer destination
Former Penn State linebacker Jamari Buddin has picked his next college home. After entering the NCAA transfer portal on Jan. 12, the Ypsilanti, Mich., native announced Wednesday that he will play next at New Mexico State.
“Thank you to all the coaches who have reached out to me and gave me another opportunity to pursue my dream,” Buddin wrote on social media. “It has been a long and stressful process, and I have spent a lot of time thinking about what’s best for my future.
“After much prayer, I have decided to further my academic and athletic career at New Mexico State University.”
A former four-star recruit, Buddin played just 83 defensive snaps over two seasons in State College. He totaled seven tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery before deciding to move on.
“Being at Penn State has been nothing short of amazing,” Buddin wrote when announcing his departure. “I can’t thank Coach Franklin and the staff for giving me an opportunity to further my academic and athletic career at one of the most prestigious schools in the country.
“After reflecting on my time here at Penn State, it is in my best interest that I enter the transfer portal with 3 years of eligibility remaining. I am now open for recruitment. Let’s work!”
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New Mexico State was 7-6 last season. It capped the year with a victory over Bowling Green in the Quick Lane Bowl. Numerous linebackers are listed on the Aggies’ 2022 roster with eligibility remaining. It is unclear which other programs Buddin considered before picking the school.
A look at the Penn State linebacker picture in 2023
Penn State returns starters Abdul Carter and Curtis Jacobs outside this fall and also has both co-starters back at middle linebacker in Kobe King and Tyler Elsdon.
Buddin joins Jonathan Sutherland and Charlie Katshir in moving on from Manny Diaz’s position group. But, Keyon Wylie and Tyrece Mills are also back. And, the progam signed three four-star linebackers in the Class of 2023: Tony Rojas, Ta’Mere Robinson, and Kaveion Keys. The first two members of that listed group enrolled in January for the start of the spring semester and will be eligible to participate in the Lions’ 15 sets of drills between March and April that culminate with the Blue-White game on April 15 at Beaver Stadium.
“I think we signed three elite linebackers,” Diaz said before the Rose Bowl. “Very pleased at that group.”
