**Unexpected News: Coach James Franklin Tells Penn State, “I Am Done, I Won’t Coach Again in 2025 Season” Due to Personal and Professional Reasons**

University Park, PA – In an unexpected and shocking announcement, Penn State head coach **James Franklin** has revealed that he will not return to coach the Nittany Lions in the 2025 season. Franklin, who has been the face of the program since 2014, stated that he is stepping down due to a combination of personal and professional reasons, bringing an end to a successful chapter of Penn State football.

The announcement, made earlier today during a press conference with the Penn State athletic department, has left fans and college football analysts in disbelief. Franklin, who led the Nittany Lions to several New Year’s Six bowl games and a Big Ten Championship appearance during his tenure, expressed that the decision was deeply personal but necessary for his well-being and the future of the program.

“I have had the honor of coaching at this incredible university for nearly a decade, and it has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” Franklin said, visibly emotional. “After much reflection, I’ve come to the difficult decision that I will not return for the 2025 season. This has nothing to do with the incredible support from the university, the fans, or the players—this decision is about what’s best for me and my family. It’s time for me to step away and focus on personal matters, both in my life and my career.”

Franklin’s departure comes as a shock, considering the continued success of the program under his leadership. Penn State has remained one of the top teams in the Big Ten, and with a roster full of talented players, the Nittany Lions were expected to remain contenders for a national championship in the coming years. Franklin’s leadership has been widely praised, with players and staff alike pointing to his emphasis on building a strong culture, developing talent, and fostering success both on and off the field.

However, Franklin made it clear that after extensive reflection, he felt it was the right time for him to step away. “It has been an incredible journey, but sometimes you need to know when it’s time to let go. My family and I have always put Penn State first, but now I need to focus on myself and my future,” Franklin said.

Athletic director **Patrick Kraft** expressed his understanding and support for Franklin’s decision. “James Franklin has been an outstanding leader for Penn State, and while we are saddened by his departure, we respect his decision and thank him for everything he has done for this program. He leaves a lasting legacy, and we wish him all the best in his next chapter.”

The news of Franklin’s resignation raises several questions regarding the future of Penn State football. The university will now begin a search for a new head coach to take over the program in 2025, with numerous prominent candidates already rumored to be in the mix.

For now, the Nittany Lions will focus on finishing the 2024 season strong, with assistant coaches stepping up to lead the team. As Penn State transitions to a new era, Franklin’s departure marks the end of one of the most successful coaching tenures in the program’s history. Fans will undoubtedly remember Franklin’s contributions to the team, as he helped bring Penn State back to national prominence.