Beau Pribula, the backup quarterback for Penn State, has announced that he will enter the transfer portal, opting not to participate with the team in the College Football Playoff. He shared his decision on social media, citing the conflicting timelines of the playoff and transfer portal as the reason for what he called an “impossible decision.”
During a Monday press conference, Penn State head coach James Franklin expressed his admiration for Pribula, referring to him as a “wonderful young man.” Franklin emphasized that Pribula found himself in a “no-win situation” caused by the current state of college football. Pribula attended practice but was reportedly distracted by the pressures of scheduling visits and balancing his schoolwork.
Franklin provided insight into the discussions they had about Pribula’s future, stating that the player had no intention of leaving the team until the end of the season. However, the timing of the transfer portal and the pressures that come with being a quarterback led to his decision.
“I hate it for Beau Pribula,” Franklin remarked, stressing that the current system does not serve student-athletes’ best interests. He voiced concerns about the implications of having a transfer portal operating simultaneously with major playoff games, suggesting that changes might be needed to better align college football with student-athletes’ academic commitments.
Pribula, a player who had a significant impact during the season with 242 rushing yards and five touchdowns over 187 offensive snaps, had also shown his capability in crucial moments, such as stepping in for an injured Drew Allar during a game against Wisconsin. Now, with Allar expected to return for the 2025 season, Pribula’s exit opens new questions for the Penn State offense, as offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki will need to adjust the game plan without the “Pribula package.”
The winter transfer portal, which opened recently and will remain active until December 28, already has thousands of players entered, including many quarterbacks. Pribula is expected to join their ranks as he seeks a new opportunity.
In an era where student-athletes are navigating complex decisions balancing their future against team commitments, Pribula’s experience highlights the need for potential systemic reforms in college football. His journey may lead to new possibilities, and many fans will be eager to see where he lands next.