Former Penn State safety King Mack pens note of gratitude

King Mack capped a relatively quiet spring transfer portal window for Penn State football with a bang. The sophomore, a safety who drew rave reviews for his performances in his debut season, decided to leave the Nittany Lions and find a new home.

Friday morning, though not offering clarity into the “why” behind the decision, Mack expressed his thanks to friends, coaches, teammates, and the Penn State community for the experience. In a statement graphic posted to Instagram, Mack laid out the many groups who helped him during his time with the Nittany Lions.

“As I reflect on my freshman football season, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible journey I’ve been privileged to experience,” Mack wrote. “Today, I write to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me—from the stands, on the field, behind the scenes, and beyond.”

King Mack makes a mark in year one at Penn State

Listed at 5-foot-10, 187 pounds, Mack appeared in all 13 games for the Nittany Lions last season. The Miami, Fla., native played on special teams as well as in limited reps at safety, fifth in a rotation behind Jaylen Reed, KJ Winston, Zakee Wheatley and Keaton Ellis. And, with the opportunity, he notched three tackles and a quarterback hurry.

With Ellis’ departure this offseason, Mack appeared in line to compete for a third spot in the rotation as a follow up. But, the emergence of Wheatley as one of the major breakouts of the spring firmly entrenched Mack as the likely fourth for Penn State during the 2024 season.

So, when asked about Mack’s progress, Reed reflected that logjam for the young competitor in the position room.

“I feel like King, he’s in a room right now where it is deep. But he’s one of them players doing a great job off the field and on the field,” said Reed. “When King gets in the game this year, he’s going to show the world. I feel like he’s gonna have a great opportunity to show the world who King Mack is. He’s been doing a great job on the field this spring. He’s been making plays all over the field. It’s just once he puts it on the field and shows the world, I feel like it’s gonna be complete.”

King Mack issues statement

The note reads in full:

Dear Friends, Coaches, Teammates, and the PSU Community,
As I reflect on my freshman football season, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible journey I’ve been privileged to experience. Today, I write to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me—from the stands, on the field, behind the scenes, and beyond. First and foremost, I give thanks to God for blessing me with the opportunity to play the sport I love at such a prestigious level at and for the strength to pursue my passions each day.
To Penn State University—thank you for welcoming me into this storied program. Your esteemed tradition of excellence and community has enriched my life immeasurably. The lessons I’ve learned here extend far beyond the field, shaping me into the person I am proud to be becoming. To all my coaches, thank you for your unwavering belief in my potential and for pushing me to excel. Your guidance and mentorship have not only improved my game but have also taught me valuable life skills that I will carry with me forever.
To my teammates, thank you for the camaraderie and spirit. Every practice and game with you has been a lesson in teamwork, resilience, and mutual support. You are more than just teammates to me—you are family. To the incredible staff and all the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, your dedication does not go unnoticed. From the training staff to the administrative personnel, your efforts are the backbone of our success.
To the community and our devoted fans, your enthusiasm and support energize us every single day. Playing in front of you has been one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life, and I am so grateful for every cheer that has pushed me to give my best.
Thank you all for the unforgettable memories and the life-changing experiences during my freshman year. With deepest appreciation for this past season.

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