5 newcomers to watch in Penn State Blue-White Game

3. Kooper Ebel, Linebacker

Nov 8, 2025; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; Iowa State Cyclones linebacker Kooper Ebel (47) and linebacker Caleb Bacon (26) celebrates a defensive stop against the TCU Horned Frogs during the first half at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Penn State has recently been hailed as one of college football's "LBUs", being able to rely on a stalwart group of linebackers. Now, the room will get a little bit more Iowa State flair in it, with three new linebackers form the Cyclones coming to Happy Valley. Kooper Ebel may be the best of the bunch. Along with Penn State's most important returning talent in Tony Rojas, Ebel will add a veteran presence in the middle of the defense for the Nittany Lions. His 2025 season in Ames, where he logged 77 total tackles, showed off his versatility and leadership. Look for the senior to have a massive year in State College.

2. Connor Barry, Quarterback

For many Penn State fans, this may not be the transfer QB they want to see. However, with both Rocco Becht and Alex Manske on the sidelines, it will be the former D-III man at the helm of the Penn State offense for the time being. While Penn State fans may not see a lot of Barry in his Penn State career, they are getting an experienced QB with impressive arm strength and program records in the D-III ranks, including an undefeated record last year with Christopher Newport.

1. Brett Eskildsen, Wide Receiver

Iowa State Cyclones' wide receiver Brett Eskildsen (9) celebrates with offensive line coach Ryan Clanton after score a touchdown against Kansas during the third quarter in the senior day on Nov. 22, 2025, at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa

With fellow Iowa State transfer Chase Sowell sidelined with injury, Brett Eskildsen will be the most intriguing wide receiver prospect on the field. For a program that has struggled to find elite talent at the position, Penn State fans will hope that a player like Eskildsen, who has flashed his deep threat potential, will bolster the position group. His 17.5 yards per catch showcased his elite game-breaking speed and the ability to maintain a connection with Becht. He will be squarely in the limelight come the Blue and White game, should Sowell still be unable to go.

This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: 5 newcomers to watch in Penn State Blue-White Game