Penn State linebacker Jamari Buddin enters transfer portal
Penn State is still searching for more additions via the transfer portal. It’s no secret that James Franklin and his staff are still targeting both wide receiver and defensive tackle as priority positions, but outgoings are still possible until Jan. 18. On Thursday evening, one of Penn State’s linebackers announced his decision to leave the program in redshirt freshman Jamari Buddin.
“Being at Penn State has been nothing short of amazing. I can’t thank Coach Franklin and the staff for giving me an opportunity to further my academic and athletic career at one of the most prestigious schools in the country,” Buddin wrote in a statement posted to social media.
“After reflecting on my time here at Penn State, it is in my best interest that I enter the transfer portal with 3 years of eligibility remaining. I am now open for recruitment. Let’s work!”
Related: Two more four-star prospects added to upcoming Penn State junior days
An native of Ypsilanti, Mich., Buddin was a four-star player coming out of Belleville High School in the Class of 2021. During his first two seasons on campus, Buddin played just 83 snaps on defense. In 2022, he backed up freshman Abdul Carter at the WILL position this past season. For his career, Buddin totaled seven tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and one fumble recovery.
Buddin is now the sixth Penn State player to enter the portal and the second player to announce since the Rose Bowl win over Utah. Quarterback Christian Veilleux was the first to enter back on Nov. 29. He’ll play at Pitt next season.
Defensive ends Rodney McGraw and Davon Townley also entered in early December. McGraw is headed to Louisville, while Townley is yet to announce his destination. Cornerback Jeffrey Davis Jr. and defensive tackle Fatorma Mulbah were the other two. Davis will play at Stony Brook next season, while Mulbah announced earlier today that he’s headed to West Virginia.
