Penn State dropped some big news for their offensive firepower, fam! Seniors Benjamin Brahmer and Gabe Burkle, two tight ends who recently rolled into town via transfer, have landed on the John Mackey Award watch list. This isn’t some small deal; we’re talking about the honor for the best tight end in the country, and these guys are already making waves among over 40 potential winners.
These Iowa State Imports Are Ready To Feast
Dude, these two are no joke. Brahmer was already a semifinalist for the Mackey Award back in 2025, pulling down 37 catches for 446 yards and six touchdowns. Burkle wasn’t far behind, adding 26 grabs for 302 yards and a score. What’s wild is both of them followed coach Matt Campbell when he made the move from Ames to take over as Nittany Lions coach on December 8, 2025. That connection could be HUGE for the Penn State offense. And get this, former Nittany Lion Luke Reynolds, a junior, is also on that same list, even after he bounced to Virginia Tech, putting up 26 catches for 257 yards last year.
Building On A Tight End Legacy
Think about this: Penn State knows how to produce elite tight ends. Tyler Warren, a senior for the Lions, won this very award at the end of the 2024 season. He went OFF, racking up 1,233 yards and eight touchdowns, legit carrying Penn State to the College Football Playoff semifinals. And as a rookie with the Indianapolis Colts in 2025, he kept cooking, snagging 76 passes for 817 yards and four scores. That’s a serious legacy to follow. Last year, the Nittany Lions dipped to a 7-6 record after starting with a No. 3 preseason ranking. Having two TEs with this kind of potential could be exactly what this team needs to bounce back hard.
What’s Next For The Nittany Lions?
So, what’s next? Penn State is sitting at No. 17 in the US LBM Coaches Poll, which dropped on August 4. They kick off their season at home against Marshall on September 5. With Brahmer and Burkle already on the national radar, every Nittany Lions fan has to be hyped to see these guys in action. Can they help turn around that 7-6 record from last year and prove why they’re ranked No. 17? We’re about to find out!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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