Penn State Football: Three impactful newcomers in 2023

1. Penn State Tight End Room:

Theo Johnson and Tyler Warren are the incumbent tight ends coming into this season, but they had better be careful because the Nittany Lions picked up three prospects sure to give them a run for their money this spring and summer. Penn State football does have a history of great tight ends, from Kyle Brady to Pat Freiermuth and Mike Gesicki.

In this recruiting cycle, the Nittany Lions signed three tight ends that will challenge the veterans for snaps. Frosh Joey Schlaffer still has room to mature physically at 215 pounds, but he can line up in the slot or the flanker. He might not give much as a traditional in-line Y-tight end, but he can line up off the ball and steal some snaps. Mathias “Mega” Barnwell could have the most upside of any of the tight-end recruits.

Barnwell is listed as an athlete but played tight end in high school. Where he plays depends a lot on how the staff views him. However, Barnwell could dominate at tight end. He’s a physical marvel with great hands. Barnwell possesses ideal size already and could push to be a day-one starter.

Don’t discount Andrew Rappleyea from stealing snaps as well. Rappleyea, a stand-out basketball player, is a great athlete and is the most polished of the three prospects. If you want competition at critical positions, mission accomplished with the tight end room.