New Penn State offer out to coveted transfer receiver

Montana Lemonious-Craig, a fourth-year receiver from Colorado, is reporting a Penn State offer. The former On3 three-star recruit, with the Buffaloes for the past three seasons, announced he’d enter the transfer portal on Sunday.

The news comes in the wake of a spring session in which Penn State head coach James Franklin acknowledged a continuing need for help at the receiver position. Though KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Harrison Wallace had separated from the others, and Dante Cephas‘ arrival in May would presumptively improve the room, and Omari Evans took a step in the Blue-White Game, Franklin noted the need for more.

“I think we need some more depth and competition at wide receiver, because I do think by West Virginia or by game four or game five, I think we could have six guys that we feel good about,” Franklin said. “But right now, we’re trying to figure out who the third is, although a guy stepped up today. I want there to be legitimate competition at every position.”

Lemonious-Craig is the first receiver to publicly announce an offer from Penn State in the transfer portal since the Blue-White Game on April 15.

Penn State interest

At Colorado, Craig played in 25 games over the past three seasons. Arriving during the COVID year in 2020, he caught just one pass for 15 yards, then followed it with 10 catches in a steadier reserve role in 2021 over nine games. However, breaking out in 2022, Lemonious-Craig produced a team-leading turn.

Starting all 12 games for the Buffaloes last year, he put up a team-high 23 receptions for 359 yards. His three touchdowns finished second on the team. Of his receptions, five went for more than 20 yards and he finished with a season long of a 69-yard touchdown.

Craig is listed at 6-foot-2, 190 pounds. He will have three years to complete two more seasons of eligibility in his college career.

Montana Lemonious-Craig departure announcement

On Sunday afternoon, Lemonious-Craig posted to Twitter his intent to leave the Colorado program in its first year with head coach Deion Sanders at the helm.

The statement reads, in full:

“Colorado Family, I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. I am writing to express my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the entire University of Colorado community for the incredible opportunity I have had attending this esteemed institution in Boulder, Co.

“During the course of my time at the University of Colorado, I have been fortunate to cross paths with many remarkable individuals who have played a significant role in my journey. From the dedicated fans who have cheered the team on throughout victory and loss, to my fellow teammates who have become like family, to the hardworking support staff who have ensured my success both on and off the field, and to the coaches who have tirelessly mentored and guided me, I am truly grateful for each and every person who has contributed to my college experience. I am particularly thankful for the sincere people I have had the pleasure of meeting during my time at the University of Colorado. The warmth and kindness that I have experienced from the faculty, staff, and fellow students has made my time here truly special.

“The sense of community and camaraderie that permeates this campus has been a source of inspiration and motivation for me, and I am appreciative to have been a part of such a supportive environment. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to my family for their unwavering support along my journey. Your encouragement, sacrifices and love have been a constant source of strength for me and I am forever grateful for vour presence in my life. Your belief in my abilities and your constant support have been instrumental in the pursuit of my dreams, and I am honored to have you by my side. I am proud to have been a part of this community. 

“Again, I want to thank the University of Colorado for making my college experience truly unforgettable.”