5 Penn State Football Standouts Surprise New OC in Spring Practice

Offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser highlights breakout players ahead of the 2026 season.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:16pm

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Several Penn State football players have impressed new offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser during spring practices, including running back Quinton Martin and wide receiver Kobe Howard. Mouser noted that despite the influx of high-profile transfers, incumbent players have embraced the competition and not felt threatened.

Why it matters

As Penn State looks to build on a successful 2025 campaign, the emergence of new playmakers alongside the team's star transfers will be crucial in determining the Nittany Lions' offensive identity and success in the upcoming season.

The details

Mouser highlighted the performances of running back Quinton Martin and wide receiver Kobe Howard as two players who have stood out in spring practices. Despite the arrival of several high-profile transfers, Mouser praised the incumbent players for embracing the competition and not feeling threatened by the new additions.

  • Spring practices are currently underway at Penn State.

The players

Taylor Mouser

The new offensive coordinator for the Penn State football team.

Quinton Martin

A Penn State running back who has impressed the coaching staff during spring practices.

Kobe Howard

A Penn State wide receiver who has stood out in spring practices.

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What they’re saying

“It would have been really easy for that guy, with the transfers we've brought in here, to feel sorry for himself or think he's being cheated, and he hasn't at all.”

— Taylor Mouser, Offensive Coordinator

The takeaway

The emergence of new playmakers alongside Penn State's high-profile transfers will be crucial in determining the Nittany Lions' offensive identity and success in the upcoming season.