What's the latest with Penn State receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith? James Franklin weighs in
STATE COLLEGE — Following the Blue-White game, Penn State coach James Franklin made his first public comments about reports that surfaced Friday saying senior receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith will enter the NCAA transfer portal when it opens for undergraduates on Tues., April 16.
“I’m really happy to talk about any of the guys that played today and who were in the locker room, but other than that, I don’t have much to tell you,” Franklin said.
The Norfolk, Va., native has not directly addressed the reports. He was not seen at a portion of last Tuesday’s practice that was open to reporters. Lambert-Smith was also not at Saturday’s Blue-White game. He could have left for the NFL after the 2023 season. Instead, he returned for another college season. That said, it now appears very likely that he will play elsewhere in 2024. Over four seasons with the Lions, Lambert-Smith has caught 126 passes for 1,721 yards and 11 touchdowns.
“I think he’s had a good spring,” Franklin said in early April. “He’s shown some real flashes this spring. And I’m seeing them on a more consistent basis. I think Coach [Andy Kotelnicki]’s done a really good job with him as well. They seem to have a really good relationship. I think [receivers coach] Marques [Hagans] has done a really good job of developing relationships with the whole room. We need him to have a big year, and I’m seeing more consistency in the special plays and production.”
Assessing the Penn State receivers room now
The rest of the Penn State receivers room was on display during Saturday’s intrasquad scrimmage. It was a windy day at Beaver Stadium, which hindered the passing game some. That said, Harrison “Trey” Wallace led the way with five receptions for 72 yards. Five different receivers caught a pass. Kaden Saunders had a team-high 30-yard reception. And, despite three drops, the group had a positive day overall.
“I think like you saw today, a bunch of guys touched the ball and made plays,” Franklin said. “We were able to distribute the football around. I’ve had all the faith in our receivers in terms of talent and ability. We have to take the next step, [and] we took a step this spring. We have to take another one this summer.
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