BREAKING NEWS: James Franklin Rejects $45 Million NFL Offer to Stay at Penn State
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college football and NFL worlds, James Franklin, the head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, has turned down a massive $45 million offer from the Las Vegas Raiders to remain in Happy Valley. The news has left fans, analysts, and insiders alike in disbelief, as Franklin was widely considered one of the top contenders for the Raiders’ head coaching vacancy.
According to sources close to the situation, the Raiders approached Franklin with a lucrative contract that would have placed him among the highest-paid coaches in the NFL. The offer, reportedly spanning five years, was part of the franchise’s effort to bring in a strong leader to reshape its struggling program. However, despite the enticing financial package and the allure of coaching at the professional level, Franklin declined.
“I have no plans of leaving Penn State,” Franklin reportedly told his team during a closed-door meeting. “This is my home, and we have unfinished business here.”
Franklin’s decision underscores his deep loyalty to Penn State, where he has served as head coach since 2014. Under his leadership, the Nittany Lions have enjoyed multiple double-digit win seasons, a Big Ten championship, and consistent appearances in major bowl games. Franklin has also revitalized recruiting at Penn State, bringing in top-tier talent and building a competitive culture rooted in discipline, player development, and long-term vision.
This isn’t the first time Franklin’s name has surfaced in NFL coaching rumors. Over the past few years, his success at Penn State has drawn interest from several pro teams. Yet each time, he has remained committed to the university, its players, and its fans.
The timing of the Raiders’ offer is particularly notable, coming on the heels of one of the most promising offseasons for Penn State in recent memory. With a strong recruiting class, a talented returning roster, and heightened expectations for the upcoming season, Franklin appears focused on achieving the ultimate goal: a national championship.
“This speaks volumes about who James Franklin is,” said a Penn State athletics official. “It’s not just about the money or the spotlight for him. It’s about building something meaningful and lasting at Penn State.”
For the Raiders, Franklin’s rejection is a major setback in their coaching search. With the NFL offseason heating up, the team will now be forced to pivot and consider other candidates. For Penn State, however, it’s a massive win—a sign of stability and vision in an era where coaching turnover is often constant.
Fans reacted with overwhelming support across social media, praising Franklin’s commitment and passion for the Nittany Lions. Many called the move “legacy-defining,” reinforcing Franklin’s status as one of the most respected and influential coaches in college football today.
With his eyes firmly set on the 2025 season, James Franklin is doubling down on his mission in Happy Valley: to bring a national title back to Penn State.
