Penn State Football: 3 most impactful newcomers for 2022 season

1. Mitchell Tinsley, WR

There were eight Nittany Lions selected at this year’s NFL Draft, the most out of any Big Ten team. Leading the pack was first-round pick Jahan Dotson. His departure left a big hole in the receiving corps. Enter Mitchell Tinsley.

A year ago Tinsley was a part of the most productive passing offenses in FBS. Western Kentucky threw for over 6,000 yards, averaging over 430 yards per game through the air. Tinsley contributed 1,402 of those yards on 87 catches with 14 touchdowns. When he announced his entrance into the transfer portal, several Power 5 programs sought after him.

Without Dotson, Penn State still had rising star Parker Washington and KeAndre Lambert-Smith. But there was a clear void. Tinsley instantly gave the Nittany Lions a starting third receiver when he announced his intention to transfer to State College last December.

At six-foot-one 205 pounds, Tinsley is the deep threat desperately needed by the offense. He averaged 16.1 yards per catch and caught five passes last year of over 40 yards. Moreover, on 125 targets, he registered only two drops.

While he only has one year of eligibility left, Tinsley is now roommates with quarterback Sean Clifford which is sure to help their chemistry. Tinsley, Washington, and Lambert-Smith look to be a fantastic stable of receivers capable of being one of the best trios in the conference.