BREAKING NEWS: Joe Burrow Reaffirms Interest in Joining Penn State Football, Aligns with Coach James Franklin
*May 6, 2025 — In a stunning development that could redefine the college football landscape, Cincinnati Bengals franchise quarterback Joe Burrow has publicly reaffirmed his interest in joining the Penn State Nittany Lions football program. The Heisman Trophy winner and former No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick is reportedly aligning himself with head coach James Franklin in what could become one of the boldest and most unconventional quarterback moves of the decade.*
Burrow, who led LSU to a national championship in 2019 and has been the cornerstone of the Bengals franchise since being drafted in 2020, made headlines earlier this week during a press conference in Cincinnati. When asked about his football future and off-field aspirations, Burrow delivered an unexpected statement: “I’ve always admired what Coach Franklin has built at Penn State. If there’s ever an opportunity to be part of that, I’d welcome it.”
While NCAA eligibility rules and Burrow’s multi-million-dollar NFL contract raise major questions about the plausibility of such a move, sources close to the situation suggest that Burrow’s interest may not be limited to playing. Speculation is swirling that he could be eyeing a coaching, advisory, or mentorship role within the Nittany Lions program. Still, Burrow’s own comments were cryptic enough to leave open the possibility of something more unorthodox.
Coach James Franklin responded to the reports on Tuesday, saying: “Joe Burrow is one of the most respected football minds in the game today. We’re always open to collaborating with great leaders, whether on the field or off.”
This wouldn’t be the first time a top-tier NFL player explored involvement with the college game, but it would be unprecedented for an active NFL quarterback of Burrow’s stature to join a college program in any capacity. Burrow has deep ties to Ohio and the Big Ten, having started his college career at Ohio State before transferring to LSU.
Social media has exploded with reactions, ranging from disbelief to excitement. Former teammates and analysts are weighing in, some suggesting Burrow is setting the stage for a long-term pivot into coaching or player development.
What this means for his future with the Bengals remains unclear. Burrow is under contract through the 2029 NFL season after signing a five-year, \$275 million extension in 2023. However, with increasing interest in leadership, philanthropy, and education, it’s possible that Burrow is beginning to chart a new chapter that reaches far beyond the NFL gridiron.
