Unfinished Business: Top Penn State football players reveal Peach Bowl status

The Penn State football team had several players and coaches speak to the media on Friday ahead of the 2023 Peach Bowl. Newly hired offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki shared his thoughts and background with everyone. But also, veteran Nittany Lions sat down and publicly addressed their future. Three key Penn State players, Olu Fashanu, Tyler Warren, and Adisa Isaac, all explained their thought processes on the NFL Draft. They also discussed if they will or will not play in the Peach Bowl.

Top Penn State football players Tyler Warren, Adisa Isaac reveal Peach Bowl status

In the hours since media day on Friday, two Penn State football players, linebacker Curtis Jacobs, and offensive lineman Caedan Wallace, both declared for the 2024 NFL Draft. However, both Nittany Lions expressed that they will play in the Peach Bowl on December 30, admirable decisions from two of the most veteran players in the program.

Looking ahead, two players who had strong seasons but have a chance to return to Happy Valley in 2024 include tight end Tyler Warren and defensive end Adisa Isaac.

Starting with Warren, he was arguably the most consistent tight end for the Nittany Lions in 2023. He hauled in 29 catches for 295 yards and 7 touchdowns this season. With strong hands and a massive frame, he’s an exciting option for NFL scouts. When speaking about his future, he made it clear he is undecided on the NFL. But he did confirm that he will play in the Peach Bowl.

Penn State tight end Tyler Warren hasn’t decided on 2024 NFL Draft, will play in Peach Bowl.

He leads Lions with seven touchdown catches. pic.twitter.com/YDVT1wxfkL

— Tyler Donohue (@TDsTake) December 15, 2023

Shifting to Adisa Issac, this Penn State veteran has been through a lot. In 2019 and 2020, he looked like a rising star, but then in 2021, adversity struck when he suffered a season-ending injury. His response to that adversity was more than reassuring for NFL scouts. In 2023, he accounted for 35 tackles and 7.5 sacks. He has also not decided on his NFL future, but he will play in the Peach Bowl.

Isaac said, “As a captain, it’s my duty to finish what I started. Me personally, it wouldn’t have been right to just leave.”

Penn State’s Adisa Isaac hasn’t decided whether he’ll return for another season, but he will be participating in the Peach Bowl against Ole Miss.

“As a captain, it's my duty to finish what I started. Me personally, it wouldn’t have been right to just leave.” pic.twitter.com/micCLQlTfI

— Joel Haas (@Joel_Haas1) December 15, 2023

Potential 1st-round pick Olu Fashanu undecided on NFL future

Olu Fashanu would have been a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He decided to return to the Penn State football team to improve his skills and secure his degree. Now, ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft, he has another decision to make. The outstanding offensive tackle plans on heading to the Peach Bowl, but did not state if he will play or not. He has still not decided on his NFL future at this time.

This goes to show how much thought goes into declaring. James Franklin has always spoken about the importance of not making the decisions for his players. Whether that is committing to play at Penn State or entering the NFL Draft, there are several advantages and disadvantages to both. These players just need time to think things through.

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