Penn State football: James Franklin talks Joey Porter Jr., opt out, future decisions
Penn State coach James Franklin has talked for the first time about cornerback Joey Porter Jr., opting out of the Lions’ bowl game and declaring for the NFL Draft.
“Obviously, he’s a young man that we recruited out of western Pennsylvania,” Franklin said. “He comes from a football family and, and came here and really thrived. He thived academically, thrived from a football perspective, and just kept getting better and better. And obviously, you guys have seen him physically. He’s got a lot of physical tools that most corners do not have. And, he just kept getting better. From a strength and conditioning perspective, from a technique and fundamental perspective, from an overall football perspective.
“Terry Smith did a phenomenal job with him. And whether it was Brent Pry, or Manny Diaz, we were able to call certain things or run certain schemes because of the confidence that we had in our defensive backs and specifically our corners when we’re talking about Joey. I’m proud of him. For him to be able to able to battle and come back as quickly as he did from his medical situation, which was the appendicitis during the season, and do everything he possibly could to try to get back, was telling on his commitment to his teammates and his commitment to this progaram and university. I’m proud of them and, you know, we’re going to be there to support them every step of the way.”
Porter Jr., announced his decision on Thursday.
“First and foremost, I sincerely appreciate my teammates, coaches, family and every member of the Penn State community who have made the last four years so memorable. My time at Penn State has been nothing short of a blessing,” Porter Jr., wrote on Twitter.
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What is the timeline for other Penn State opt outs?
Penn State coach James Franklin also discussed that on Sunday night.
“You’re just trying to have open, transparent conversations. And, you hope the relationships that you build all the way from the recruiting process and through this, that they’re comfortable enough to come in and talk to their position coach or they’re comfortable enough to come in and talk to me and be honest and be transparent,” Franklin said.
“So, that’s just kind of how we try to approach it. And, again, be honest and transparent, and know what’s going on and, and have really good conversations.”
Penn State meets Utah in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 2. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. ET.
