James Franklin shares how Malik McClain has adapted at Penn State

In the offseason, the Penn State Nittany Lions acquired an elite level pass-catching threat on the outside and former Florida State wide receiver Malik McClain courtesy of the transfer portal. McClain’s impact on the team has been felt throughout the offseason and in their Week 1 victory over the West Virginia Mountaineers.

As Penn State prepares for their Week 2 matchup against the Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens, Nittany Lions’ head coach, James Franklin, shares how he has adapted to the program in such a short time.

“He’s been a really nice addition physically; been a really nice addition culturally,” said Franklin. “He got here a few days late after the semester started; it was like a scramble. He did extremely well academically (and) continues to do well academically. He’s always got a huge smile on his face; he’s helping on special teams (and) on offense. We recruited him out of high school, so there was already that relationship. We had a really good relationship with his high school coach as well. He’s been awesome. He’s been one of the more popular guys on the team. Everyone likes him. He’s just been a really good fit for our program, and we’re glad we got him.”

In week 1 against West Virginia, McClain put together a solid debut, hauling in four catches for 58 yards and one touchdown for Penn State. Still, his most extensive impact was felt in the leadership department, as he helped keep the Nittany Lions focused on securing the victory in their season opener.

Franklin believes McClain earned the ability to help lead Penn State through how he carries himself on and off the field.

“I think it’s hard to come in and say you’re going to be a leader from day one when you don’t have the relationships, but he’s built them. And he has earned the respect of the room through his actions, his attitude, and his work ethic.”

McClain will have plenty more opportunities to put together great performances at Penn State, especially with talented sophomore quarterback Drew Allar under center. At the same time, it is clear from Franklin’s comments above his biggest impact on the Nittany Lions this season is in the leadership department. And Franklin is thankful to have McClain on the roster this season after missing out on acquiring him as a part of Penn State’s 2021 recruiting class.