Campbell, who has one year of eligibility remaining, became Penn State's most important transfer signee in 2025, earning the starting job at middle linebacker and ultimately leading the team in tackles (103). He was named third-team All-Big Ten after posting 9.5 tackles for loss and three sacks and scoring on a fumble recovery against Rutgers.

The 6-6, 255-pounder is the fourth transfer commitment for coach Matt Campbell thus far. Burkle, who will be a redshirt senior in 2026, ranked as the No. 140 transfer and No. 10 tight end, according to 247Sports.

Former Iowa State defensive back Marcus Neal Jr. has committed to Penn State, via the NCAA Transfer Portal. Neal is following head coach Matt Campbell, who, in December, accepted an offer to become the Nittany Lions head coach.

The Illini went to The Palestra and knocked off the Nittany Lions. Here are three numbers that explain how they made it happen.

(Update as of 1:45 p.m. on Saturday: Safety Antoine Belgrave-Shorter, linebacker DaKaari Nelson and tight end Matt Henderson are in the transfer portal, per reports by Lions247. Belgrave-Shorter made three starts in 2025.)

Cincinnati Bearcats defensive coordinator Tyson Veidt is leaving for Penn State after UC's Liberty Bowl loss to Navy

The Illini kicked off 2026 with a gritty win in one of the nation's most historic venues, and social media had thoughts about it