Penn State football has welcomed back a familiar face to its coaching staff. Trace McSorley, the former Nittany Lions quarterback who led the team to significant victories during his playing days, will now serve as an assistant quarterbacks coach. This move comes after McSorley's initial role as an offensive analyst for the university. His new position under quarterbacks coach Danny O'Brien will see him mentoring current players such as Drew Allar and Etha Grunkemeyer.

A Journey Back to Happy Valley

In a twist of fate, Trace McSorley's career path has brought him full circle to the place where it all began. The Virginia-born athlete first joined Penn State in 2014, redshirting his freshman year. By 2016, he had established himself as the starting quarterback, leading the team to a Big Ten Championship victory over Wisconsin. Despite losing in the Rose Bowl to USC, McSorley continued to shine, guiding Penn State to a Fiesta Bowl win in 2017 and a Citrus Bowl appearance in 2018. After being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2019, McSorley played briefly in the NFL with stints on various teams including the Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots practice squads.

McSorley's return to Penn State was unofficially announced during THON 2025’s Pep Rally, where he hosted alongside former teammate Landon Tengwall. Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Pat Kraft hinted at the hiring during the event, which was met with excitement from fans and alumni alike.

From the gridiron to the sidelines, McSorley's transition highlights the cyclical nature of college football. His experience, both on and off the field, positions him well to guide the next generation of Nittany Lions quarterbacks. For McSorley, this return represents not just a professional opportunity but also a chance to give back to the community that helped shape his career.

This development underscores the importance of mentorship in sports. As McSorley steps into his new role, he brings with him a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience that can inspire and educate young athletes. His journey serves as a testament to the enduring bond between players and their alma maters, reminding us that the lessons learned on the field often extend far beyond graduation day.