Penn State football offensive line may rely on this JUCO transfer

One of the strengths of the Penn State football team in 2023 is the depth on the roster. Going back to last season ahead of the Blue-White game it was announced that the format would need to change due to the lack of healthy offensive linemen needed to complete a full scrimmage. Fast forward to where the team is now and that is no longer a concern, even with an injury this season there is plenty of depth among the offensive line. The Nittany Lions may have to dip into that depth earlier than expected as JB Nelson has a possible massive opportunity ahead of him.

The Penn State offensive line may rely on this JUCO transfer

Throughout the 2023 fall camp for the Penn State football team offensive lineman and starting left guard, Landon Tengwall has been dealing with “bumps and bruises” per James Franklin. As of Wednesday night that still appeared to be the case, in the meantime with Tengwall sidelined, Lackawanna Community College transfer JB Nelson has been filling in at left guard.

Coach Franklin described Nelson as the “most physical” offensive lineman. He mentioned that the team views him as a starting-caliber player which is a clear indication that if Tengwall needs time to get healthy, the team should not see a massive drop-off in physical ability on the field.

The Progression of JB Nelson

JB Nelson is from Pittsburgh, PA and he played his high school football for current Penn State staffer Bob Palko at Mt. Lebanon High School. After high school, he started his college career at Lackawanna Community College where he became the No. 1 junior college prospect in Pennsylvania. He transferred to Penn State ahead of the 2022 season, where he saw action in four games for the Nittany Lions.

Now, with a full offseason under his belt, Nelson is looking to make an impact where he is needed this season.

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